A Good Deal for Stockings Card Games Offer Pocket-Sized Fun
Card games are a quick, fun impulse buy that can be used as a last-minute gift, stocking stuffer or a self-treat for having suffered through the holiday shopping. Here are a few examples of pocket-sized games just right for the grabbing:
Littlest Pet Shop Go Fish Card Game by HASBRO INC.
In this game, players compete to collect the most matching pets.
— As of 8.12.10, this product had 5 out of 5 stars from tworeviews on ToysRUs.com and was listed No. 4 in best-selling toys and games. PROS: Durable, easy to use, interactive. 8/12/2010 (Price: $5.99; Age: 5 and Up)
Pokémon HeartGold & SoulSilver 2010 Collector Tin by POKEMON USA
In this collectible card game, players work with powerful Pokémon to become a Pokémon trainer. Each tin expands increases game play choices, and contains one promo foil card and four booster packs.
— In July 2010, five percent of 38 surveyed retailers told TDmonthly that Pokémon cards are a top-selling collectible. 8/9/2010 (Price: $11.99)
Magic: The Gathering 2011 Booster Pack by WIZARDS OF THE COAST
The collectible card game's 2011 Core Set is available in booster packs featuring five different cover art images. Each pack includes 15 cards.
— In a July 2010 survey, two of 38 specialty retailers told TDmonthly that Magic: The Gathering cards are a best-selling collectible item. 8/9/2010 (Price: $3.99; Age: 13 and Up)
Sequence NUM6ERS by JAX LTD INC.
For 2 to 6 players, or up to 3 individual players, Sequence Numbers is similar to the original Sequence game, except the cards are a mathematical equation, whose answer is a number found on the game board. First player or team to achieve the required amount of Sequences wins the game. 8/9/2010 (Age: 7 and Up) ENTER JAX LTD INC. TOYSHOW
S'Quarrels Card Game by HOME LANTERN GAMES LLC
S’Quarrels is a card game based around the theme of squirrels collecting acorns before winter arrives. Under a nearby oak tree, embark upon the rigorous task of collecting and storing acorns before winter sets in. Your opponents are trying to take them all before you do. Whirlwinds, Ambushing, Quarreling, and Hoarding are all part of the game. Get the coveted Golden Acorn, while avoiding the Rotten Acorn. The player to store the most Acorns before Winter arrives wins.
— "What's selling really well for me is S'Quarrels," Jude Larene, owner of Izilla Toys in Seattle, told TDmonthly in July 2010. "I'm selling piles of it and I need to order more today. It gets into a neighborhood and everybody wants it." Owner Gini Wingard-Phillips of Math 'n' Stuff in Seattle also referenced S'Quarrels as a great game in summer 2010. 8/6/2010
Yu-Gi-Oh! Collectible Tins by KONAMI
These collectible tins can store decks, cards and other Yu-Gi-Oh! accessories. Each tin includes a Secret Rare variant card of the monster depicted on the tin, along with four additional Super Rare variant cards and five booster packs. 7/27/2010 (Price: $19.99)
Unusual Suspects by FUNDEX GAMES
In this game, everyone plays the role of detective and suspect. At the beginning of the game, each player blindly draws a card from the deck, and the character on the card becomes their secret identity. The dealer deals the cards and roll the dice to set up the crime scene. Players can “solve the case” by matching their six fingerprint cards to the six fingerprint dice, and can "tamper with the evidence” by drawing a new card, or re-rolling one of the dice. 7/13/2010 (Age: 6 and Up)
Ringling Brothers Classic Card Set by DISCOVERY BAY GAMES
This playing card set consists of four timeless card games - Crazy Eights, Hearts, Old Maid and Go Fish - each designed with its own vibrant and vintage Ringling Brothers artwork. 6/29/2010 (Price: $14.99)
Word FRENZY Card Game by TAME TIGER LLC.
Word FRENZY is a fast-paced, word-forming card game that aims to foster spelling, vocabulary, word association and math skills. Playing with letter cards, players try to be the first to collect cards that spell a four-letter word relating to a category. "It's stealth education made fun!" Tame Tiger Marketing VP Steve Kam told TDmonthly.
Awards: 2009 Parents' Choice Approved Award; 2009 Dr. Toy's Best Picks; 2009 The National Parenting Center Seal of Approval; 2010 Family Review Center Gold Award; 2010 Family Review Center Editor's Choice Award 6/25/2010 (Price: $19.99; Age: 10 and Up)
Booray! by WINNING MOVES GAMES
Booray! is a fast-paced New Orleans-themed poker game. The first player to obtain 400 Booray Bucks or to be the last player standing wins. This game consists of 52 custom-designed cards and 108 Booray Buck cards, and is designed for three to six players. 6/23/2010 (Price: $9.99; Age: 13 and Up)
Building Dead Guys by Cloud Kingdom Games
Building Dead Guys pits two players against each other. Each round a new body part is drawn. Both players bid secretly on it, then the winner places the Part onto their dead guy. Once a player has a head, two arms, legs and a couple of organs, he or she wins. 6/18/2010 (Price: $13.95; Age: 13 and Up)
BrainBox - Nature by MINDWARE
This clever memory recall game challenges players to memorize as many details as they can in just 10 short seconds. To play, turn the timer over, concentrate on the card and try to memorize as many details of the picture as you can. Players then roll the die to determine which question will be asked and quiz each other on what they remember. Is the starfish red or blue? What 'giant' creature is shown? Is a purple coral shown? The nature theme will keep young minds engaged in this fast-paced game of concentration and detail. 5/28/2010 (Price: $14.99; Age: 8 and Up)
Galaxy by FAMILY PASTIMES
The game begins with a Random Universe arrangement. Players try to create an Ordered Universe of life and form. The illustrated cards represent various thought-provoking concepts. The game also includes The Collection, a booklet of 40 more co-op card games for the same deck. 5/17/2010 (Price: $15; Age: All Ages)
Man Bites Dog by Are You Game?
The cards in this headline card game have words on them, each with a point value. Construct the headline that earns the highest points, and the biggest laughs. The first player to get to 500 points wins. Compact enough to go on the road, the game comes with 106 Headline Cards, three Exclusive Cards and an Instruction Card. 5/14/2010 (Price: $9.99; Age: 3 and Up)
The Adventures of Tommy the Tomato Playing Cards by Tommy the Tomato
The Adventures of Tommy the Tomato Playing Cards is an extension of the alphabet book for children. It is a memory, "go fish" and trivia game all in one. The games are designed to teach children literacy though the alphabet as well as the benefits of nutrition while being interactive. 4/30/2010 (Price: $9.95; Age: 2 to 12) ENTER Tommy the Tomato TOYSHOW
Eco Squad by WIGGLES 3D
Kids Learn to Go Green with the Eco Squad Kids are challenged to go green in a playful way with Eco Squad from Wiggles 3D. This Green Solutions Card Game offers young players a fun way to learn about Earth's air, water, energy and fossil resources. 4/23/2010 (Price: $9.95) ENTER WIGGLES 3D TOYSHOW
Who's Missing? A Calico Critters Card Game by INTERNATIONAL PLAYTHINGS LLC
The popular Calico Critters by International Playthings are the focus of this new card game. In Who’s Missing: A Calico Critters Card Game, two to four players try to memorize an ever-increasing number of cards and remember the missing cards after some are removed by the dealer. The 48 cards feature pictures of the Calico Critters families and can be used to play two additional games.
— Katie of Katie’s Nesting Spot reported that the adorable Critters attracted her daughter to the game and kept her interested while building her memory and number recognition skills. Katie felt that the increasing number of cards in play and inclusion of several styles of play provided “a great way to keep older kids challenged and engaged.”
— Jocelin Cap of BSCKids liked the quality of the oversized cards, noting that the thickness of the laminated cards “allows the children to manipulate them from a slick tabletop a lot easier.” Jocelin played the game with her two young sons, who “loved when they were dealing and had the opportunity to trick us when they pulled a card away.” 4/22/2010 (Price: $9.99; Age: 3 and Up)
A Game of Thrones LCG™: A Sword in the Darkness Expansion Pack by FANTASY FLIGHT GAMES
A Game of Thrones Living Card Game is a game of epic battles and intrigue for two to four players. Players vie for the Iron Throne as one of the six Great Houses of Westeros using their favorite characters from George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels in military, intrigue and power challenges. A Sword in the Darkness is the third installment in the Defenders of the North expansion to the A Game of Thrones living card game and features the never-before-seen character cards Stallwart Shield and Orell the Eagle. This 40 card pack includes 20 different cards designed to augment existing decks. Launch date: April 2010. 3/29/2010 ENTER FANTASY FLIGHT GAMES TOYSHOW
Rock the Beat by PLAYROOM ENTERTAINMENT
A party game where each player is given a card with a unique hand symbol they must watch out for. Everyone starts the beat and if an opponent makes another's symbol instead of the clap in the beat, that person must respond with their symbol and then one of another player. The game teaches rhythm, strengthens observation and encourages social interaction. For four to twelve players. Launch date: 2010. 3/25/2010 (Age: 10 to Adult)
MLB Card Game by TDC GAMES INC.
Licensed by Major League Baseball, this card game simulates an actual baseball game, with two players/teams, nine innings, three outs per inning, walkins-runs-outs, etc. Team-specific and generic titles are available. "Unlike any other baseball game, the MLB card game is like playing baseball and because of its convenient size, can be played almost anywhere," Sandy Bergeson, Executive VP, TDC Games, told TDmonthly. Launch date: April 15, 2010. 3/10/2010 (Price: $5.99; Age: 8 and Up)
Playing Cards - Keep Smilin', Sweet Candy, Rock Band by ISCREAM
These hip, four-color playing card designs are designed to bring a whole new level of fun to card games. Launch date: January 4, 2010. 3/10/2010 (Price: $6.00; Age: 3 and Up)
Family Fluxx by LOONEY LABS
From Looney Labs comes the latest edition of Family Fluxx, a card game designed for the whole family. Family Fluxx starts with a single rule — draw one card and play one card — but the game gets more complex as cards add rules or goals. Cards like “Grandparent Bonus,” “Walk the Dog” and “Happy Birthday” are designed to get everyone in the family playing cards, changing rules, and having fun with Family Fluxx. Launch date: February 26, 2010.
— Jeff Provine of Blogcritics tested Family Fluxx and found games to last between two and 30 minutes, though no matter the length, “something is always happening.” He also felt the game’s balance of luck and skill is perfect to engage older and younger players. GeekDad’s Jonathan Liu found the game easy to teach to his 6-year-old daughter and an enjoyable experience for them both. 3/4/2010 (Price: $12.00; Age: 6 and Up)
Rummikub® 8 Round Rummy Card Game by PRESSMAN TOY CORP.
The fast-moving rummy game replaces its tiles in this eight-round card game. Each increasingly difficult round has a different goal and different ways for players to make sets and get points. For two to six players. 3/4/2010 (Price: $5.99; Age: 7 and Up)
Dweebies™ by GAMEWRIGHT
Meet the Dweebies™ in the card game with character. These lovably colorful characters are out to capture your heart, but you must capture them first! Round up Dweebies by matching cards on both ends of any row. Seems simple at first... but Dweebies can be tricky, and some will disappear before they've met their match. Collect the most cards and consider yourself the Dweebie-in-Chief. Includes 54 cards, Rules of play and Instrucciones en Español. For 2-6 players. Awards: Parent's Choice Award 2010. Launch date: Spring 2010 2/17/2010 (Price: $10.99; Age: 8 and Up)
OH-SPELL! Card Game by BANANAGRAMS
This game for two to six players pairs the concept of four suits with the letters of the alphabet, challenging each player to create one or more words using all of his cards. A hand can require from 1 to 10 minutes. 2/17/2010 ENTER BANANAGRAMS TOYSHOW
Rowboat by MOOSETACHE GAMES LLC
Played with a unique deck of nautical themed cards, Rowboat is comprised of several different phases play that combine luck and strategy. Combining cards face up on the table and cards held in players' hands, each player must devise a dynamic strategy in order to play his cards, as well as predict how many rounds he might win in order to score the most points and ultimately win the game. “There's a lot to the game that forces you to create a strategy, and based on your opponents moves you have to rethink the way you're going to move forward,” John Montague, owner of Moosetache Games, told TDmonthly in February 2010. 2/9/2010 (Price: $10.99; Age: 13 and Up)
Golden Gate by BLUE ORANGE GAMES
Cards are played in sequence, progressing up or down. A player sets down cards in number order. A yellow card means to take a chip out of the Golden Gate. But then, there's some skill involved: Can a player place them at the right times to get the best chips? Or will the opportunity pass? Getting stuck with red cards means a loss of chips. "Golden Gate is an exciting card game in which you combine a little bit of luck with the right plays to start piling up your points. It’s a fast, friendly showdown for the gold with the fine craftsmanship and colorful designs you’ve come to expect from Blue Orange Games," Bert Devort, Sales Department, Blue Orange Games, told TDmonthly. Launch date: February 14, 2010. 2/4/2010 (Price: $19.99; Age: 7 and Up) ENTER BLUE ORANGE GAMES TOYSHOW
The World Cup Card Game by GAMES FOR THE WORLD
With this deck of 65 cards, players can play the 2010 World Cup (Soccer) tournament and find out who will win the trophy. There are 32 Team cards, 32 Action cards and a reference card. It plays best with four to eight players but can be played with two or three. The entire tournament takes about 75 minutes to play. It is based on the popular World Cup Board Game. Launch date: January 29, 2010. 2/4/2010 (Price: $8.00; Age: 10 and Up)
S'mores Card Game by EDUCATION OUTDOORS
The S’mores card game is designed for up to six multi-level players and incorporates both strategy and good old-fashioned fun. The object of the game is to build an edible s’more before your opponents. Players get a higher point value based on the quality of s’more ingredients. The first player to collect all four ingredient cards and call out “S’more!” wins. The S’more card game includes 70, 3" x 5” sturdy playing cards. It is printed with soy-based ink on recycled paper. Launch date: March 2010. 2/4/2010 (Price: $5.99; Age: 6 and Up) ENTER EDUCATION OUTDOORS TOYSHOW
Sparring Cards by WHITE BOARD DESIGN GAMES
This combat card game with a martial arts theme contains 54 cards and is for two or more players. Participants can choose to use one or more deck for this fast-paced game of attack and defense that simulates the discipline of martial arts sparring. Opponents may spar cooperatively or competitively. Players can expand play with an add-on deck, and fly, spin, duck and dodge their way to victory. It includes rules for single-round play through a six-belt tournament, and there are special rules for beginner, intermediate and advanced play. Launch date: December 2009. 1/14/2010 (Price: $12.95; Age: 8 and Up)
Seven Card Samurai by MINDTWISTER USA
A family card game set in feudal Japan during the era of the Samurai which depends on skill, strategy and planning. It is a time where bandits roam the countryside stealing the precious rice from villages. Yours is one of those villages. Defend your rice with Samurai and Ronin, use bandits and Ninjas to steal other villages’ rice and eliminate their Samurai, and plead with the local Shogun to conscript help for you. But be warned, for the other villages are doing the exact same thing. Launch date: 2010. 1/11/2010 (Price: $19.95; Age: 6 and Up) ENTER MINDTWISTER USA TOYSHOW
StoryPlay Cards by THINK-A-LOT TOYS
StoryPlay Cards is a deck of storytelling and playing cards designed to delight, inspire and intrigue kids of all ages. The card deck has 90 illustrated cards along with a carrying pouch and two guidebooks. Children can use these cards to tell stories, play card games like Spoons, Poker, Sets and Concentration, or use them to engage in thoughtful conversation by choosing the card or cards you are attracted to and talking about what they mean to you. Launch date: Feb. 14, 2010. 12/16/2009 (Price: $19.99; Age: 8 and Up)
26! Card Game by YOVICH GAMES
26! gets its name from the 26 letters of the alphabet and consists of 54 playing cards. Each card shows a letter from A to Z, and a number 1 to 26. The object of 26! is to use six dealt cards and a seventh card from a drawing deck to create a 3-, 4-, or 5-letter word and then, with the remaining cards, form an arithmetic equation that equals 26, using any combination of addition, division, multiplication, or subtraction. Up to four players can play from one deck of cards. In addition to its entertainment value, 26! helps international students learn English, povides enrichment for students in science and math, and benefits remedial students studying spelling and arithmetic. Launch date: November 2009. 12/14/2009
What's Wild by GOLIATH GAMES
Collect hands full of herds and caravans over the course of 10 rounds of play and be the player with the least amount of points at the end to win! But be careful…the wild card may change when you least expect it, and you’ll be left to ask, “What’s Wild?!” 11/4/2009 (Price: $9.99; Age: 6 and Up)
A-B-C OY! by DREAM GREEN
A-B-C OY! contains eight surprisingly adaptable word, spelling and alphabet based games for any age or ability level. Players can learn letters backward and forward with ZOOM OY! or speed spell with SLAPSPELL OY!. They can use the blank cards included to make their own foreign alphabet. The deck contains 120 cards, which includes both capital and lower case letters. Instructions are in English, French and Spanish and include comprehensive information for parents and educators. Launch date: 1996. 10/29/2009 (Price: $10.00; Age: 4 and Up)
Triplica by FUN Q GAMES, INC.
Players compete by placing cards to line up three in a row of the shape that matches their secret Goal. The first player to score five Goals wins. But beware ... placing a card can help opponents as easily as it can help you. Triplica includes two multi-player games and an addictive solitaire version. "Triplica is a challenging and competitive game based on the very simple idea of making three in a row," Jeanine Calkin, president of Fun Q Games, told TDmonthly. Launch date: December 2009. 10/29/2009 (Price: $14.99; Age: 7 and Up)
Circle Out! Game by CIRCLE OUT GAMES LLC
The Circle Out! game is a game of abstraction and visual memory. Twelve to 16 cards are laid out and players race to find the most circles of the largest size. The “circle” aspect of the game is all abstract. Each card has two features — a top and bottom triangle of different colors. Circles are formed by connecting cards of the same color together: red to red, blue to blue, etc., until the same color connects the chain of cards together at both ends. Bottom Triangles only link to Top Triangles and vice versa. A circle of three linking cards are worth one point, four linked cards are worth two points, and five linked cards are worth three points. 10/22/2009 (Price: $9.99)
Jukem Football by FLYING PIG GAMES, INC.
Jukem is a fast game that can be played in 20 minutes or less. The game lasts two times through the deck. No prior knowledge of football is required. 10/20/2009 (Price: $14.99; Age: 8 and Up)
Thoughts and Feelings 2 - Sentence Completion Card Game by BRIGHT SPOTS GAMES
This all-new sentence completion game is the vibrant sequel to the original Thoughts and Feelings, new sentence stems, new illustrations, and new ways to engage children of all ages. This deck compliments and adds to Thoughts and Feelings 1, and is a great way to build a set of therapeutic tools. Thirty five cards are included. 10/20/2009 (Price: $19.95; Age: All Ages)
TastyTalk Conversation Cards for the Entire Family by U.S. GAMES SYSTEMS, INC.
Why do onions make you cry? Where was the first hamburger served? The TastyTalk deck is full of delectable tidbits about food, with intriguing questions that get conversations cooking. Each deck contains 50 illustrated cards, ideal for family time. "The delightful artwork and open-ended questions make this conversation deck appealing and engaging," Lynn Araujo, communications director of U.S. Games Systems, Inc., told TDmonthly. 10/5/2009 (Price: $6.00; Age: 5 to 14) ENTER U.S. GAMES SYSTEMS, INC. TOYSHOW
Bakugan 7 in 1 Maxus Dragonoid by SPIN MASTER TOYS
More than just a card or just a toy, the Maxus Dragonoid is a monstrous combination of six Bakugan Traps and a Dragonoid Bakugan. The package also includes a Gate Card and an Ability Card. The year 2009 saw growth in the line with new mechanics and game play modules, as well as a second season of the cartoon show. Launch date: October 2009. 9/30/2009 (Price: $39.99; Age: 8 and Up)
Legend of the Five Rings Imperial Gift expansion by ALDERAC ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, INC.
In Legend of the Five Rings, storyline is more than just a backdrop on which to do battle. Players choose what “clan” they will play as. Outside the game, clan members network with each other, and help each other out. The free release of Imperial Gift is a way to not only thank players for their support over the years, but to deepen the bonds between players. 9/30/2009 (Age: 12 and Up)
Kwizniac™ The Trivia Countdown Game by THE BRAND CAFE / KWIZNIAC
Watch Video
Kwizniac is a trivia countdown game designed to test your knowledge under pressure. The object of the game is for players to accumulate as many points as possible by correctly answering as many trivia questions as possible. Because Kwizniac consists of only cards and the players’ brain power, it can be played everywhere and at any time. Kwizniac can be played with just two people or a whole group. Watch Kwizniac: Top-5 Video, Toy Fair 2010 9/16/2009
Selection by 5ş DIMENSION INTERNATIONAL
Selection is the company's most popular game and can be played with 1 to 7 players. Players have to select hands that match the categories on the playing sheet. The game takes about 25 minutes to play. 9/9/2009 (Age: 7 and Up)
The BFF Box of Questions by THE BOX GIRLS
With 52 questions, this game is designed to let players know how well they you know their BFF, and how well their best friend knows them. Launch date: September 15, 2009. 8/28/2009 (Price: $20.00; Age: 8 to 14)
State Fab Facts Fast! Card Game by GALLOPADE INTERNATIONAL
Kids can learn state facts fast in this card game that's available for 11 states: California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. Six fun ways to play include matching, trivia, and rummy-style games. The card facts and graphics include more than 40 state facts including state map, symbols, trivia, spelling and true-or-false. Launch date: January 2008. 8/19/2009 (Price: $9.99; Age: 7 to 12)
Crazy Bugs by SOUND ADVICE INC.
Bugs and worms are not just fascinating; they also pollinate the rain forest, flowers, and crops, and decompose waste to clean the earth. A cross between “Crazy Eights” and “Trivial Pursuit,” Crazy Bugs is a card game for children that teaches how bugs and worms may appear creepy but bring goodness to the earth. "Crazy Bugs is the only ecology awareness game that teaches children how bugs positively effect a healthy environment," Mindy Myers, CEO of Sound Advice, told TDmonthly. It received a 2009 Creative Child Magazine Game of the Year Award. Launch date: May 2009. 7/7/2009 (Price: $14.95; Age: 8 and Up)
Ingenious Inventions by EVOLVING TOYS LLC
In this techno trading game, players try to diversify their hands with the best inventions from each invention family by 'doing deals' (trades) with other players. Deal Maker cards give an added zing to play. There's an inventor’s die and an inventions pocket guide. It "puts the future in childrens’ hands like no other game before it!" Geoffrey Moran, President, Evolving Toys, told TDmonthly. This product was a Museum Store Association Buyer’s Choice Award Finalist 2009. Launch date: August 15, 2009. 6/29/2009 (Price: $10.95; Age: 8 and Up)
Thomas & Friends Great Discovery Card Game by BRIARPATCH INC.
No reading is required for this fast-paced, card-swapping game for the young Thomas fans. The Stanley Comes Aboard deck can also be used to play Snap and Memory games. It is made in the USA of recycled materials. Launch date: March 31, 2009. 6/29/2009 (Price: $7.00; Age: 3 to 7)
Professor Noggin's History of Art by OUTSET MEDIA
Kids can learn to appreciate the highest achievements of civilization in painting, sculpture and architecture. This product is designed to cover the world of art across time and culture, introducing children to basic terminology and famous artists. The Professor Noggin series has won more than 12 awards. Launch date: July 30, 2009. 6/29/2009 (Price: $9.99; Age: 7 to 12)
Txtpert (Card Game) by GAMES PLAY UK
This addictive puzzle is currently available on all major mobile phone cariers in the USA and on Iphone Worldwide. It is also available daily in the USA TODAY newspaper in a daily puzzle. Txtpert the card game works exactly the same way as all the other brands. Launch date: June 2009. 6/29/2009 (Price: $15; Age: 8 and Up)
2-Player Perpetual Commotion® by GOLDBRICK GAMES
2-Player Perpetual Commotion is the original Perpetual Commotion specially designed for two-player speed and excitement. Play as many cards as you can into a center Arena to earn points. Gain extra points by being the first to empty your Feeders pile—but watch out! A single roll of the eight-sided die can change your score. 6/17/2009 (Price: $8.95; Age: 8 and Up)
WarStone™ by DUNCAN TOYS
WarStone is a collectible card game using marbles to compete against opponents on a board. The starter set is designed for 2, 3, or 4 players. To start a game, divide the card deck by color and match up stones with cards of the same color. Set up the battlefield. Place stones in their starting positions. Stones with icons match the icons on the cards. Except for Hex cards, each stone has a matching card. The object of the game is to fire at an opponent and knock a predetermined number of them off the battlefield. The cards instruct you how to attack. Contents include 24 WarStone Stands, 24 Page Rule Book, 2 Savage Stones, 4 Master Stones, 16 Core Stones, 60 Cards, Ruler and Markers, and Storage Pouch. 4/15/2009
Baskards by ROLO GAME
Now kids can play basketball in the house without knocking down the lamps. The Baskards card game has penalties and points, just like a real basketball game. 4/14/2009 (Price: $8.95)
Go Knights, Go Dragons! by EARWIG ENTERPRISES
In this card game for two to eight players, players assemble sets of cards to make their army of knights and dragons. A player can include the magical breath weapon with his knight or dragon to destroy the knight or dragon of the same color. "You assemble the cards to make the image of your knight or dragon. The cards are in four languages, so there maybe some accidental learning," Dr. Daniel Sulliban, owner of Earwig Enterprises, told TDmonthly. Launch date: February 2009. 4/9/2009 (Price: $20.00; Age: 6 and Up)
Super Circles by OUT OF THE BOX PUBLISHING
Players race to play all their cards by matching colored rings on the previously played card. Quick minds and fast fingers will triumph. The game "challenges your visual interpretation skills," Leah Osterhaus, VP of marketing for Out of the Box Publishing, told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 15, 2009.
Awards: 2009 Major Fun Award 3/31/2009 (Price: $9.99; Age: 8 and Up)
ONEXENO by PENROSE PRESS
ONEXENO is a edge-matching card game with 70 unique cards (per deck) representing the complete set of TriHadamard kernels. The basic game may be played by 2 to 7 players, ages 7 and up. Players make points by arranging rows of edge-matching cards. When a row of five cards is complete, the player takes the points indicated on the face of the card. This simple rule leads to exceptional complexity and engaging strategic play. 2/10/2009 (Price: $19.50; Age: 7 to 70)
Family Talk and Grandparent Talk — Double Deck Tin by AROUND THE TABLE®
Two of Around the Table's award winning games in one tin. Family Talk and Grandparent Talk cards, each with 100 cards per deck, connect generations through fun and diverse conversations. Available March 2009. 2/3/2009 (Price: $19.99)
Name that Vanity by SLANGUAGE GAMEZ
Name that Vanity is the addictive and contagious license plate guessing game. Players play the game to their favorite song, and once the song ends, so does one round. It's designed for fun on the road or at home. Launch date: February 15, 2009. 1/23/2009 (Price: $24.99; Age: 12 and Up)
SportACTION Card Games by ChalkTalkSPORTS
ChalkTalkSPORTS SportACTION Card Games are fast playing and action packed for popular team sports. Varieties include Baseball, Lacrosse, Football, Soccer and Hockey. These card games provide hours of intense fun as players race to be the first to assemble their winning team. Strategy, skill and fun make them entertaining for the entire family. "Our SportACTION card games play like the real sport. Its a race to pull together your team first as you watch out for penalty calls," President Julie Lynn of ChalkTalkSPORTS told TDmonthly. 1/9/2009 (Price: $6.99; Age: 5 and Up)
Dragon Deck by GAMELOT INC.
The Dragon Deck fuses Chinese culture with new educational and chance games. Forty-seven cards were extracted from the Mahjongg tile set and combined with five Feng Shui cards to create the 52 card Dragon Deck™ to parallel the International 52 card pack for a Yin Yang balance. The Dragon Deck, with Asian symbology, conveys deeper meanings to all Chinese, especially when the Feng Shui cards play “wild.” Non-Chinese easily pick up on all games through their similarity to western deck play — 3 Fishing is Go Fish, Modulo is a counting game, Dragon Bridge is Bridge, Dragon Poker is 5 Card Draw, Yangtze Hold'em is Texas Hold'em, and two to four players can play a faster version of Mahjongg. "In bringing the ancient game of Mahjongg into an updated format of the 52 card Dragon Deck, children gain insight to history and strategy while having fun," Tom Campbell, marketing manager for Gamelot, told TDmonthly. Launch date: October 2007. 10/29/2008 (Price: $7.00; Age: 6 and Up)
I Betcha by Îlot 307 inc.
Each player receives a card that lists three secret challenges to be carried out during the play period in front of other players without getting caught. With family or during a party, players then try to expose other players in order to win. The small box takes up little counter space and is easy to take along. Launch date: March 2008. 10/27/2008 (Price: $15; Age: 12 and Up)
WebCardz Ben 10 Alien Force by SNAP TV INC.
This is the battling card game kids can play on the Web. WebCardz™ is a collectible strategy card game played with a deck of hex-shaped battle cards and an Alien Force figurine that moves along the battle matrix kids construct with the cards. Each pack includes an Alien Force figurine, 30 Battle Cards that feature the powers and abilities of the character, and three Power Base Cards that modify the character’s fighting style. Each pack also includes a Secret Keycode that allows one to unlock the character and cards on the Web and face off against opponents in real-time battles. "WebCardz has three fun play patterns in one toy — figurative characters, a strategic card game and an online game. The card game is customizable and builds around the Ben 10 Alien Force brand," Jason Tenenbown, VP of product and brand for Snap TV, Inc., told TDmonthly. Launch date: October 21, 2008. 10/27/2008 (Price: $14.99; Age: 6 and Up)
Whack-a Boom!!™ Boomwhackers® Card Games by RHYTHM BAND INSTRUMENTS LLC
Play 20+ games from the double-deck combinations of color and rhythm cards. These card games are designed for families, classrooms, and large or small groups. The color cards use the Chroma-Notes™ colors that match the C Major Diatonic Scale Set of Boomwhackers Tubes. Package contains 48 color cards, 48 rhythm cards, 2 wild cards, 2 music word cards, and instruction booklet. 9/29/2008 (Price: $19.98) ENTER RHYTHM BAND INSTRUMENTS LLC TOYSHOW
Old Maid by eeBoo corp.
A simple card game, Old Maid is played by two to eight players who try to make pairs out of randomly dealt cards. Pairing up is the only way to eliminate cards from a hand, but each round every player has to take a card that he or she has not seen from another player’s hand and hope it makes a pair! The game is over when only the ‘Old Maid’ card is left ― the one card in the deck that has no match ― and the person holding it loses. This set from eeBoo features whimsical illustrations for children.
— “It’s a classic game with adorable illustrations!” Kim Emigh, VP of e-commerce at Growing Tree Toys in State College, Pa., told TDmonthly.
— Five of 64 retailers named Old Maid when asked about best-selling card games in August 2008. This version from eeBoo is one of many on the market. 9/29/2008 ENTER eeBoo corp. TOYSHOW
Zany World Card Game by A ZANY WORLD GAMES
A fun card game that connects people and cultures, revealing truths and untruths in our daily lives. The game shows us a fun way to learn about ourselves and others. 9/23/2008 (Price: $29.99; Age: 9 and Up)
UNO FLASH™ by MATTEL INC.
UNO Flash is the fast and furious new way to play UNO. It features exciting new technology and game-play rules to keep everyone on their toes. Who's next? When your red light flashes, it's your turn. You have to discard quickly before your time runs out. Lights and sounds direct the action. Play is fast and unpredictable; everything can change in a flash. "The new speed element in UNO Flash brings an entirely new level of excitement to UNO, whether you're new to the game or a veteran player," explained Marlene Esqueda, Account Executive, GolinHarris Public Relations for Mattel, Inc. Launch date: June 2008. 9/19/2008 (Price: $29.99; Age: 7 and Up)
Treasures and Traps: The Adventure Card Game by STUDIO 9 INC.
Treasures and Traps™ is a complete card game that puts you in the role of the hero. Your quest is to collect three treasures before anyone else. Sounds simple enough, but throw in a two-headed troll, a maze of dangerous doors, and a few cunning thieves and you won't know what might happen next. With 100 different cards, each game is a unique journey of wild adventure never to be repeated again. Awards: 2007 Origins Award Best Card Game of the Year Silver Award. "Treasures and Traps is a game that the family plays. Kids, youth, and adults all enjoy it. This features makes it unique-we have heard countless stories of parents and kids, young and old, boys and girls, spending time together enjoying this one," C. Aaron Kreader, Designer, Studio 9 Inc. Launch date: 8/1/2006. 9/19/2008 (Price: $12.95; Age: 10 and Up)
Pass the Grogger! by GONTZA GAMES
This is one grogger you won’t mind the children playing with. Teach your children about Esther’s Megillah as they make pairs of cards; Queen Esther pairs with Queen Esther, Mordecai with Mordecai, etc. The only way to make a pair with Haman is by covering him up with a Grogger! 8/27/2008 (Price: $12.95; Age: 4 to 10)
Old Dinosaur by BIRDCAGE PRESS
Now kids can play their favorite card games with dinosaurs. The set includes 47 cards and a booklet of dinosaur facts in a fun tin box. Families will have fun while learning about dinosaurs. Launch date: 2004. 8/27/2008 (Price: $10.95; Age: 5 to Adult)
Battlez® FMX by ILLEKTRON
Featuring Freestyle Motocross superstar and 10 time X Games medalist Brian Deegan, along with Metal Mulisha team members Todd Potter & Jeremy Lusk. Battlez® FMX is a card & dice game that allows you to battle it out as if in a real Freestyle MX competition, playing as your favorite FMX rider. Scoring or taking away points from your opponent by matching dice combinations on the cards and executing tricks like Back Flip’s, Cliffhangers, Rock Solids, LazyBoyz, and more. You are in control and create your own Freestyle MX show! 7/29/2008
Manifest Your Magnificence for Kids by MAGNIFICENT CREATIONS LIMITEE
Each set contains 64 full-color cards, with gloss lamination to ensure quality and durability .
All cards are packed in a beautiful full-color hi-gloss gift box and shrink-wrapped for protection during shipping. All CD's are packed with beautiful full-color insert and shrink-wrapped for protection during shipping. 7/1/2008 (Price: $25.95)
Xeko Mission: Indonesia by MATTER GROUP LLC
In this third Xeko mission, two players must work to protect the islands of Indonesia. Along the way, via cards featuring animals with endangered, rare and common status, they will meet creatures unique to that region of the earth. The crate packaging, made of sustainably farmed pine wood from New Zealand, holds 41 cards, a playmat/eco-map, giant learn-to-play cards and two limited-edition sketch cards. Launch date: September 2007. 6/19/2008 (Age: 8 and Up)
Reels & Deals: The Movie-Making Card Game by AGMAN GAMES
In this game for two to five players, participants form casts from the 60 cards featuring actors, actresses and directors that parody pop-culture characters. Players must choose from 21 scripts, raise money, and engage in bidding wars for the best talent. Launch date: June 2008. 6/19/2008 (Price: $17.95; Age: 10 and Up)
EmotrionsOnCards™ by TRIANGOL STRATEGY SL
The emotional intelligence card game features cards that represent emotions such as love, sadness, fury, hungry and indecision. Positive emotions win players points, while negative ones detract points. There are various levels, advanced rules, tournament rules and rules for an alternate game. Since “everyone at any age is interested in the emotional battlefield in some way, this is the perfect game to bring the family [together]…sharing at least a genuine theme of common interest,” Triangol Strategy SL Director Rolando S. Buenavilla told TDmonthly. Launch date: May 2004. 6/4/2008 (Price: $11.95; Age: 7 and Up)
Xactika by SET ENTERPRISES INC.
The bidding game features four suits on each card, making skill the determining factor. Xactika can be played with two to ten players. It is adaptable to any skill level, with three variations of play. This item is a 2005 Creative Child Magazine Preferred Choice Award, 2002 Games 100 Award and 2002 Parent’s Choice Award winner. “Xactika is a truly unique card game with a deck that provides players with a new level of control,” Set Enterprises Vice President Bree Popp told TDmonthly. “No competitor’s version comes close.” Launch date: 2002. 5/21/2008 (Price: $12.00; Age: 12 and Up)
Angles Flash Cards by WORLD CLASS LEARNING MATERIALS INC.
The 105 double-sided, easy to read, triangular-shaped 6-1/4” x 3-3/4” cards feature four levels of difficulty and practice solving for unknown angles. The cards address supplementary, complementary, vertical and right angles. Students will also learn to identify types of triangles based on the triangle’s angle measures – scalene, equilateral, isosceles and right triangles. Launch date: February 2008. 4/17/2008 (Price: $6.99; Age: 7 and Up)
Numbers League: Infinity Level Expansion by BENT CASTLE WORKSHOPS
Infinity Level is a 60-card expansion deck to the original Numbers League: Adventures in Addiplication game. It adds 33 Superhero body parts (11 heads, 11 chests, and 11 legs) , 15 devices, and 24 villains. These expand the math skills used to incorporate addition and multiplication of simple decimals and multiplying by negative numbers. 4/10/2008 (Price: $9.95; Age: 11 and Up)
99™ by FAMILY GAMES INC.
In this fast-paced numbers game, players add number cards to the count pile. The count can quickly raise or lower at the flip of a card. The player who cannot keep the line at, or below 99 loses the round. The game is intended for two to eight players. Launch date: 2008. 3/17/2008 (Price: $60.00; Age: 8 and Up)
Ticket to Ride - The Card Game by DAYS OF WONDER
Based on the Ticket to Ride board game, this card game version includes new game twists. Players collect sets of illustrated Train cards, attempting to complete Destination Tickets while watching out for “train-robbing.” The game is intended for two to four players and includes 96 Train cards, six Big Cities Bonus cards, 46 Destination Tickets and a rules booklet. Launch date: May 2008. 3/12/2008 (Age: 8 and Up)
Bicycle Playing Cards – Take the Train™ by THE UNITED STATES PLAYING CARD CO.
The fast-paced sequencing card game, has players plan and strategize patterns and sequences. The deck includes wild cards such as End of Line, Transfer and Free Ride. The game comes with a deck of cards, 100 train fare tokens and a storage tray. Launch date: January 2008. 3/10/2008 (Price: $6.99; Age: 7 and Up)
Math Maze Mastery Set by MATH MAZE USA
This game allows learners to master positive and negative integers, fractions and whole numbers. The game apparatus includes a six-sided hex rod called a Mathematics Function Bar. One side indicates addition, the second subtraction, the third multiplication, the fourth division, and the fifth and sixth player's choice. The bar is used in conjunction with two sets of cards, Red Factor and Green Player, which are numbered 1 through 10. Players take turns creating and solving math problems using multiple operations, trying to get rid of their cards before their opponents do. Launch date: March 1, 2008. 2/29/2008 (Price: $19.95; Age: 8 and Up)
Readers Digest National Word Power Challenge™ Game by McNEILL DESIGNS FOR BRIGHTER MINDS LLC
The game sharpens vocabularies, boosts test-taking skills and fosters a love of language in a fun ad competitive format. Players use facts from four categories — word origin, fill-in-the-blank, definition and synonyms — and gain an intensive knowledge of each word. The game also includes vibrant visual reminders to heighten vocabulary retention. "The unique game mechanic of asking for specific word clues causes players to scan and remember clues (accompanied by stimulating images) takes vocabulary building to a higher level!" McNeill Designs for Brighter Minds LLC President Martin Uniacke told TDmonthly. This product is a 2008 iParenting Media Award winner. Launch date: November 2007. 2/19/2008 (Price: $19.95)
Tastes Like Chicken™ by PATCH PRODUCTS INC.
Players will match mixed up animals to mixed up animals, such a Lobster-Shark to a Snake-Lobster. The first player to get rid of all of his or her cards wins. The card game comes in a handy plastic storage case that clicks shut so kids can pack it up and take it anywhere. Launch date: February 2008. 1/29/2008 (Age: 6 and Up)
Stop 'N Go! by RAINBOW GAMES INC.
The fast-paced, action-packed game is perfect for the whole family. Using quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination, players race to be the first to get rid of their cards by matching colors and watching out for the special cards: Zap, Pass and Stop ‘N Go. The game is intended for two to six players. Launch date: June 2008. 1/18/2008 (Price: $9.95; Age: 4 and Up)
Captain Keyo Safety Card Game by ABOVE AND BEYOND CONCEPTS
A card game that teaches children how to be safe. Can be combined with Captain Keyo Safety Club Badge and Whistle Home/School Activity Book. A portion of the profits obtained from the sales of each card game will go to the Captain Keyo Non Profit Safety Club for Children. 1/11/2008 (Price: $9.95)
K.R. Bourgoine's Adventurer Card Game by SHADOWCIRCLE PRESS
This fast-paced fantasy card game challenges one to four players to search out a dangerous vampire named Count Lodrac. It comes with two, six-sided dice and 80 cards that are colorfully illustrated to represent rooms, monsters, weapons and more. Game play takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes, and expansion packs are available separately (beginning summer 2008). Everything needed to play is in the box; it is not a CCG. “The vibrant art that adorns each card depicts a novel-worthy world full of self-generating adventures, making Adventurer Card Game an easy game that never plays the same way twice — without the aid of computers,” K.R. Bourgoine told TDmonthly. Launch date: May 22, 2008. 1/10/2008 (Price: $19.99; Age: 7 and Up)
Slap-N-Grab by BUFFALO GAMES INC.
Slap-N-Grab is a fast-paced free-for-all where opponents spring into action slapping down and grabbing cards based on colors, counts and incredible creatures. A Slap Card is played face up, perchance reading “Four Cows”. Players then sequentially flip over animal cards until exactly 4 cows appear among them all. At that moment, players race to slap the “Four Cows” Slap Card and win the round. It’s survival of the fastest.
THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. 1/8/2008 (Price: $7.99; Age: 14 and Up) ENTER BUFFALO GAMES INC. TOYSHOW
The Werewolves of Miller's Hollow – New Moon: Expansion #1 by ASMODEE EDITIONS
The tiny town of Millers Hollow is stunned by the discovery of Werewolves, who, under the cover of darkness, kidnap and devour townsfolk. To discover who the fiends are, a meeting is called, bringing together all of the townsfolk that, including such characters as a psychic, two lovers, a nosy little girl and more. This diverse group will lead the inquiry and decide the ultimate fate of the town. Launch date: August 2005. 12/19/2007 (Price: $11.99; Age: 10 and Up)
Monkey Poker by THREE MONKEY GAMES
Learn poker along with Berry "The Bluffer" Bananahammock, "Fearless" Freddy Funkymunky, Albert "All In" Alexander and Mr. Bill "Bananas" Dole as they play Texas Hold 'Em. The game is easy to learn, and adds the entertaining randomness of such classic children's games as Monopoly and The Game of Life. The winner of each poker hand takes a card that dictates a certain task, such as “Take $1000 in Chi(m)ps from everyone, except for the person with the hairiest feet!" Launch date: December 2007. 11/21/2007 (Price: $18.00; Age: 8 and Up)
Exact Change by CROSSEN CREATIONS
This family card game encourages kids to practice math and money skills as they try to be the first to discard all seven cards by matching color, currency value, currency picture or Exact Change. Charity Inspirations donates 50 percent of its net profit to children’s charities chosen by customers. Launch date: Fall 1998. 10/31/2007 (Price: $9.99; Age: 7 and Up)
Tempt Destiny Football Card Game by MAVERIC INC.
“Tempt Destiny” introduces a new era in sports and party entertainment, where devout fans, friends and family members can play along with the football game they are watching. Participants are dealt seven cards, each of which identifies a certain event, such as a pass, touchdown, penalty, auto commercial, etc. Each event is assigned a point value and players gain points when their card matches the game’s events. The person with the most points at the end of a quarter wins that hand. Tempt Destiny is an "easy-to-play interactive party game that makes a great stocking stuffer [or gift] for the holidays, College Bowl games, playoffs and the big game," President Manuel Morales of Maveric Inc. told TDmonthly. The minimum wholesale order is one box (72 games). Launch date: August, 2007. 10/2/2007 (Price: $9.95; Age: 8 and Up)
Ruckus by BEST OF BEST
Accumulating sets is the aim of the game. . . It's holding onto them that's the trick! Taking an opponent's set is easy, just place a matching card from your hand on top and slide the captured set in front of you. But beware! With players matching and stealing sets faster than you can say "Ruckus," fortunes change quickly. 9/25/2007 (Price: $9.99; Age: 7 and Up)
EVE: The Second Genesis – Booster Pack by WHITE WOLF GAME STUDIO
This collectable card game is based upon the award-winning MMOG, EVE Online. Players take on the role of CEOs of galaxy-spanning corporations who battle for control of outer space to achieve total commercial and military domination. Launch date: October 2006. 9/18/2007 (Price: $3.20; Age: 12 and Up)
Sun Salutation by SPIRALING HEARTS
The game’s colorful, photographic cards teach the sequence of yoga poses that together create “Sun Salutation.” The “Sun Salutation” pose encourages relaxation, flexibility, deep breathing and more. This educational card game inspires children to embrace the benefits of yoga while having fun and staying active. The game is recommended for two to six players. Launch date: February 2007. 9/4/2007 (Price: $19.50; Age: 5 and Up)
Covert Action by R&R GAMES INC.
In this spy game, players will learn to shoot first and ask questions never.
Two or three opposing teams of Covert Operatives are trying to steal the plans for a nuclear submarine. Each team must first eliminate the other team in order to steal the plans. Players must determine whom to trust and whom to shoot. This game is intended for four to fourteen players. Launch date: August 27, 2007. 9/4/2007 (Price: $5.95; Age: 10 and Up)
Blink Bible Edition by CACTUS GAME DESIGN INC.
This fast-paced and portable card game is based on the award winning Blink card game by Out of the Box Publishing. In this Bible version of the original game, two players race to match the shapes, count or color of Christian symbols on the cards. This game requires sharp eyes and fast hands. Launch date: September 1, 2007. 9/4/2007 (Price: $6.99; Age: 7 and Up)
Human Skeleton Playing Cards by Les Entreprises SynHeme inc.
Every bone of the human body on 52 cards! Each card illustrates one or two bones using vivid color for easy recognition. Each bone is presented in its context with its name in English, in French and in Spanish. Two cards illustrate the bone structure and the Jokers serves as index. 8/31/2007 (Price: $7.98; Age: 6 and Up)
Cutthroat Caverns by SMIRK & DAGGER GAMES
Players must learn teamwork in order to survive the game, but must also learn betrayal in order to win the game. This genre-bending card game of ‘'kill-stealing,” in a classic RPG dungeon setting, forces players to walk the fine line between cooperative play and backstabbing. All the while, creatures lurk, ready to punish the entire party if players do not work together. 8/24/2007 (Price: $29.95; Age: 12 and Up)
Crayola Card Game by GREAT AMERICAN PUZZLE FACTORY
This pack includes three card games — Rummy, Color Memory and Color Snap — that feature oversized crayon-shaped cards and are easy to learn and play. In Rainbow Rummy, players try to collect the most color pairs, in Color Memory, they flip over and collect matched pairs, and in Color Snap, players race to see who is the fastest at matching the colors. 8/22/2007 (Price: $9.99; Age: 4 and Up)
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