Summer is upon us and it’s time for parents to think of various activities to entertain children for numerous weeks. Our family found ourselves in such a position, spurred by the May heatwave off we popped to the shops to buy some frisbees, paddling pools and craft supplies. Whilst in one of the shops we happened to see a Bluey branded game by the greats Orchard Toys. With an exclusive partnership for one of my daughters favourite shows the opportunity was too good to pass up.
Grannies Game is based on the iconic characters of Rita and Janet. This premise of the two sisters covering themselves in blankets and making silly voices stuck and they have returned to our screens frequently. The grannies are hard of hearing, have poor eyesight and no gnome is safe when they are driving. Taking advantage of the multitude of episodes featuring this duo, Madge and Gladys join the crew as one of the 4 characters to play as.
You’ll be playing the original scene from series 1 where Bluey and Bingo’s real Nanna learns to floss. You’ll be flipping tiles in the sandpit and seeing if they match your next space. But watch out for grouchy granny and taking nanna naps as they just confuse your progress. Using a memory flipping mechanism this game encourages turn taking as well as observational skills. Like all Orchard Toys games you’ll be learning whilst having fun.
This game is aged for 3 and over because it require more than just matching in games like Old MacDonald. Grannies Game is akin to flip and move style game. I like the additions of the nanna naps which allow that player to mess up the order in the sandpit. Similarly grouchy grannie sends you back one space, before being taken out of play.
Expect the same industrial made cardboard and high quality artwork. This game also features a larger board – a real plus as it acts as a mini puzzle before the game starts. I like the use of the different elements from the episode with the winner being rewarded with a floss dance (or any dance of their choosing) upon the 3D screen.
One slight complaint is the stands for the characters and tablet just don’t feel quite right. They must be dismantled every time the game finishes and reconstructed again. Additionally, they have a slightly odd shape to their slot, making them difficult to make flush and stand up straight. Often, they fall over which is a shame for an otherwise stellar production.
For fans of Bluey this game is a must. Featuring all the characters you’d expect in a familiar yet well adapted storyline. For those who are fans of Orchard Toys you’ll be getting all the same benefits with this one. Fun and educational with lots of learning throughout. Grannies Game will become a fan favourite and possibly convert some new people to the Bluey hype train. So, get your best granny voice ready as we all shout “RITA!”.
