Animal Upon Animal (2005) Board Game

Animal Upon Animal is a fun and engaging dexterity game designed by Klaus Miltenberger and published by HABA in in 2005. The game has become a classic in the children’s gaming world, with its simple rules and adorable animal pieces.

Game Components of Animal Upon Animal

29 wooden animals: 1 crocodile, 4 toucans, 4 sheep, 4 snakes, 4 monkeys, 4 penguins, 4 hedgehogs, and 4 lizards.

A large wooden die with various symbols.

Set of game instructions.

How To Setup Animal Upon Animal

To set up the game, each player receives a set of seven animals, one of each type. The game starts with the crocodile as the base of the stack. Players take turns rolling the die to determine their actions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Number of Players: 2-4 players.

Playing Time: Approximately 15 minutes.

Recommended Age: 4 and up, though enjoyable by adults as well.

Objective: Be the first player to place all their animals on the stack without causing it to collapse.

Die Actions:
– Single dot: Place one animal of your choice on the stack.
– Double dot: Place two animals of your choice on the stack.
– Crocodile image: Add an animal to extend the base of the stack.
– Hand symbol: Give one of your animals to another player to place.
– Question mark: Another player chooses which animal you must place next.

Player Experience

Animal Upon Animal is a delightful and challenging game that combines fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and strategic thinking. The unique shapes of the animals make each stacking attempt thrilling and unpredictable. The game is simple enough for young children to enjoy but engaging enough for adults to have fun, especially in a casual or social setting.

Pros

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 4 and up, making it a great game for families.

Develops Skills: Enhances hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and strategic thinking.

Social: Encourages interaction and fun among players.

Timeless Appeal: Remains enjoyable for both children and adults.

Cons

Frustration: Children may get frustrated if the stack collapses frequently.

Choking Hazard: Not suitable for children under 3 years due to small parts.

Space: Requires a stable and flat surface to play.

Personal Thoughts on Animal Upon Animal

Animal Upon Animal is a game that transcends age groups, offering a fun and challenging experience for both young children and adults. It is ideal for families looking to spend quality time together, as well as for adults seeking a light-hearted and entertaining game for gatherings. With its simple yet engaging mechanics, it is no wonder this game has become a classic and sold over 600,000 copies since its release.

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