Post-test review and critique with children

Bobo at the Zoo is written by Kai Haverkamp. The children's game is published by Schmidt Spiel. Subject: The well-known character Bobo Dormous goes to the zoo with his parents. Who would like to help him capture the beautiful journey in pictures?

The materials for 2-4 players are quickly prepared. I tested the game with several school children in different rounds. The children were between the ages of six and eight.

Bobo design in the zoo

The material is made of sturdy cardboard and can therefore withstand a lot. The illustrations are consistently successful and cute. The game can be set up in just a few steps, so it can be played great even in short periods of time.

This process is reminiscent of a memory game.

Bobo is at the zoo with his parents and wants to take pictures of all the animals during the visit. In order for this to succeed, we have to help him. To do this, we have to find the correct picture decorations among the cards that are face down.

This is similar to the memory game, with the added difficulty that we only have eight failed attempts. Because next to the game board is a puzzle consisting of eight pieces. On one side we see Bobo with his parents and the camera. With each failed attempt, one piece is turned over until all the pieces show sleeping Bobo. Then we lose, so we have to work hard to find 15 suitable photo opportunities.

Bobo at the zoo is well received by children.

The idea and the game were very well received by the children. The setup is also quick and the rules are explained. However, I think the age number of three years is too low. In this game, the puzzle pieces are flipped if attempts are made incorrectly, which creates a lot of pressure on the children.

Tip: In this age group, the time pressure method with Bobo at the zoo should be omitted, as the little ones in my groups quickly made the mistake eight times.

But: My older “test kids” always wanted to play Bobo at the zoo. Bobo's friends will enjoy this kids game.