Bananagrams Duel! (2019) Board Game

Bananagrams Duel! is a two-player word game based on the popular Bananagrams game. It was released in 2019 and designed by Rena Nathanson and Abe Nathanson. The game is published by Bananagrams, Inc. and is suitable for players aged 7 and up.

Game Components of Bananagrams Duel!

12 letter cubes for each player

Banana cards for scoring

Theme cards for adding variations to the game

Rulebook

How To Setup Bananagrams Duel!

To set up Bananagrams Duel, each player takes 12 letter cubes. The cubes are mixed together, and players randomly select their 12 cubes. Before each round, a Banana card is flipped over to reveal a theme, which may be used to add a twist to the gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simultaneous Play: Players simultaneously build their own crossword grids using their letter cubes.

Crossword Grid: Words must read either horizontally or vertically, left to right or top to bottom, and intersect to form one unified grid.

Theme Integration: A theme card can be used, requiring players to include at least one word in their grid that matches the theme.

Winning a Round: The first player to complete their word grid wins the round and receives a Banana card.

Game Objective: The first player to win 10 Banana cards wins the game.

Variations:

You Get What You Get: No re-rolls allowed.

Rollin’: Allows for re-rolls.

Rhyme Time: Extra Banana cards for pairs of rhyming words.

Player Experience

Bananagrams Duel is designed for players who enjoy word games and are looking for a fast-paced, competitive experience. The game is recommended for players aged 7 and above, making it a great option for families. The simultaneous play mechanic ensures there is no downtime, keeping players engaged throughout. However, the pressure to complete the grid quickly can add a level of stress.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: Rounds are fast, making it easy to play multiple games back to back.

Variations: Multiple gameplay variations add replayability.

Portable: The game is very portable and can be easily taken and played anywhere.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for families with children who know how to spell.

Cons

Pressure to Complete: The competitive nature can be stressful for some players.

Luck Element: The randomness of the letter cubes can sometimes hinder a player’s ability to form words.

Personal Thoughts on Bananagrams Duel!

Bananagrams Duel is ideal for families with children who are learning to spell, as well as for any word game enthusiasts. Its portability and quick gameplay make it a great addition to any game collection. While it may not be the best fit for those who prefer leisurely games due to its fast-paced nature, it offers a fun and challenging experience for those who enjoy racing against the clock to build word grids.

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