Don’t Wake Daddy (1992) Board Game

Don’t Wake Daddy is a classic children’s board game that was first released in in 1992. It is designed for 2-4 players, with a recommended age of 3 years and older. The game is all about sneaking past Daddy as he sleeps, trying not to wake him up.

Game Components of Don’t Wake Daddy

Game board featuring a father sleeping in a bed

Player pieces

Spinner for determining movement

Color cards

Noise cards (e.g., rollerblades, baseball, noisy clown on TV, barking dog)

Alarm clock with a button

Midnight snack tokens

How To Setup Don’t Wake Daddy

To set up the game, place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a piece and places it at the starting point. Distribute the color cards among the players. Ensure the alarm clock is properly positioned next to the father on the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Number of Players: 2-4

Age Range: Early childhood

Objective: Be the first player to reach the finish line and claim the midnight snack without waking the father.

Movement: Determined by a spinner; move to the corresponding color space.

Noise Mechanics: If a player lands on a noise space and doesn’t have the matching color card, they make a noise and press the alarm clock button.

Consequence of Noise: If the alarm clock goes off after enough presses, the father wakes up, and the player must return to the start and take a color card from another player.

Player Experience

In **Don’t Wake Daddy**, players take on the role of children sneaking to the refrigerator late at night, trying not to wake their sleeping father. The game is filled with suspense and surprise, particularly when the alarm clock goes off and the father suddenly jerks upright. This mechanic introduces children to the concept of risk and consequence in a fun and engaging way.

Pros

Engaging Mechanics: The noise and alarm clock features keep players on edge.

Easy to Understand: Simple rules make it accessible to young children.

Interactive: Encourages social interaction and strategy among players.

Educational: Teaches children about taking risks and dealing with consequences.

Cons

Repetitive: Some players might find the noise-making and alarm clock mechanism repetitive.

Scare Factor: The sudden movement of the father can be startling for some children.

Limited Depth: The game is designed for early childhood, so it lacks complexity.

Personal Thoughts on Don’t Wake Daddy

**Don’t Wake Daddy** is ideal for families with young children who enjoy interactive and suspenseful games. It’s a great way to introduce kids to board games, teaching them about strategy and consequences in a playful environment. However, it may not appeal to older children or adults seeking more complex gameplay. Despite its simplicity, the game’s unique mechanics and engaging theme make it a memorable experience for many who grew up with it.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.