A box of the "Trouble" board game by Hasbro Gaming, featuring a colorful pop-o-matic bubble in the center, the words "There's more TROUBLE in the bubble," and a "Try Me!" sticker on the corner, indicating interactive packaging. The game is suitable for ages 5 and up and for 2-4 players, with a choking hazard warning for small parts not for children under 3 years.
| | | | | |

Trouble (1965)

ByMichail

Trouble

Trouble is a board game that was first introduced in the United States in 1965 by the Kohner Brothers. The game is also known as “Pop-O-Matic” due to the unique “Pop-O-Matic” dice roller in the center of the board. The game has been popular for generations and is still enjoyed by many today.

Why is Trouble Popular?

Trouble is a classic board game that is easy to learn and fun to play. It is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. The “Pop-O-Matic” dice roller adds an element of excitement to the game, making it more engaging and entertaining. The game is also significant because it encourages social interaction and can bring people together for a fun and enjoyable experience.

Game Components of Trouble

  • Board:** A sturdy plastic board with a circular track.
  • Pieces:** Four cylindrical pieces per player, available in different colors.
  • Pop-O-Matic Die Container:** A clear plastic hemisphere containing a die, which produces a popping sound when used.
  • Dice:** A single die with Arabic numerals (except in the Travel version, which uses circular pips).
  • Player Tokens:** Small pegs or marbles, depending on the version.

    How To Setup Trouble

    Setting up Trouble is quick and straightforward. Each player chooses their set of pieces and places them in the “Home” space on the board. The Pop-O-Matic die container is placed in the center of the board. The game is ready to play once all players have their pieces in the Home space.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Be the first player to move all four of your pieces around the board and into the final four slots of the finish area.
  • Piece Movement:** Pieces are moved according to the roll of the die using the Pop-O-Matic container.
  • Starting Pieces:** Pieces can only be moved out of the Home space when the die lands on 6.
  • Additional Turns:** Rolling a 6 at any point allows the player to take another turn.
  • Capturing Opponents:** Players can send opponents’ pieces back to the start by landing on them.
  • Safe Zone:** Pieces are protected from capture once they reach the final four slots of the finish area.

    Player Experience

    Trouble is a simple yet engaging game that appeals to families and casual gamers. The Pop-O-Matic die container adds a fun and unique element to the game, making each roll exciting and audible. The gameplay is fast-paced and easy to understand, making it accessible to players of all ages.

    Pros

  • Easy to Learn:** Simple rules make it easy for anyone to start playing.
  • Fast-Paced:** Quick turns keep the game moving rapidly.
  • Family-Friendly:** Suitable for players of all ages.
  • Unique Mechanic:** The Pop-O-Matic die container is a unique and enjoyable feature.

    Cons

  • High Chance Element:** The game relies heavily on dice rolls, which can lead to unpredictability and less strategic depth.
  • Limited Strategy:** The game does not require complex strategies, which might make it less appealing to experienced gamers.
  • Repetitive Gameplay:** The gameplay can become repetitive as players follow the same path around the board.

    Personal Thoughts on Trouble

    Trouble is an excellent game for families and casual gamers who enjoy light-hearted, easy-to-play experiences. It is particularly suited for young children due to its simple rules and engaging gameplay mechanics. For those seeking more complex strategies, Trouble might not be the best fit, but it remains a classic and enjoyable game for many.

    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. 

    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl