The Last Straw (1988) Board Game

The Last Straw is a classic children’s game that was first released in in 1988. Designed by B. S. Randle, this game has been enjoyed by families for decades. With a focus on action and dexterity, players are tasked with stacking various animals and characters on top of Benjamin the Elephant without causing the stack to collapse.

Game Components of The Last Straw

A wooden animal (elephant, donkey, or camel) placed in the center of the table

Small colored sticks or straws

How To Setup The Last Straw

To set up the game, place the wooden animal in the center of the table. Each player chooses a color and takes the corresponding colored sticks. The objective is to place these sticks onto the animal without causing it to topple.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Dexterity game

Mechanics: Stick stacking

Game Objective: Be the first player to place all of your colored sticks onto the animal without it falling. If the animal topples, the game ends, and the player who caused it to fall loses.

Player Experience

Playing The Last Straw involves a mix of strategy and physical skill. Players must carefully place their sticks on the animal, trying not to be the one who makes it fall. The game can be quite suspenseful, especially as the stack of sticks grows higher.

Pros

Simple to Learn: The rules are straightforward, making it easy for new players to join.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, including young children.

Portable: The game components are compact and easy to carry.

Interactive: Encourages social interaction and competitive fun.

Cons

Frustration Level: The game can be frustrating if players are not careful, as it can take a long time to set up and a single mistake can end the game.

Repetitive: Some players might find the gameplay repetitive, as it involves placing sticks one by one.

Skill-Dependent: Success in the game heavily depends on the player’s dexterity and fine motor skills.

Personal Thoughts on The Last Straw

The Last Straw is ideal for families or groups looking for a light-hearted and engaging dexterity game. It’s a great way to improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, especially for younger players. However, for those seeking more complex or strategic gameplay, this might not be the best fit. It is a fun, casual game that can add a bit of excitement and laughter to any game night.

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