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Exploding Kittens Original Edition Review: Is It Worth It for Family Game Night?

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4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon
(116,865) Total Amazon Reviews

Exploding Kittens is a humorous and fast-paced card game that’s perfect for family game nights or casual gatherings. With its easy-to-learn rules and quirky illustrations, it’s designed to entertain players aged 7 and up. However, its limited player count and strategic depth may not satisfy everyone.

  • In this family card game, draw cards and try to avoid the dreaded Exploding Kitten! Use strategic action cards to skip your turn, shuffle the deck, or defuse the Kitten with laser pointers or catnip sandwiches. The last player standing wins!
  • Designed for 2-5 players, ages 7 and up, Exploding Kittens is great for kids, teens, and adults alike. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or want a casual game to break the ice, this easy-to-learn game is perfect for bringing everyone together.
  • Compact for travel, portable for on-the-go, camping, game nights, road trips or a family home evening.
  • Includes 56 cards illustrated by The Oatmeal (each featuring a hilarious cartoon with characters such as Tacocat, Rainbow-Ralphing Cat and All-Seeing Goat Wizard) and an instruction manual (that you’ll probably skim).
  • Our Story: One of the most successful Kickstarter campaigns ever, the hilarious characters, thoughtful design and gameplay simple enough for a good time but complex enough for ultimate replayability, Exploding Kittens has taken the world by storm, with millions of copies sold and a global fanbase.

How It Plays

Exploding Kittens is a fast-paced card game that keeps everyone on their toes. In this game, you draw cards and try to avoid the notorious Exploding Kitten. The goal is simple: be the last player standing. You’ll use action cards to skip turns, shuffle the deck, or defuse the Exploding Kitten with items like laser pointers or catnip sandwiches. This makes for a thrilling experience, especially when you’re down to just a few players.

The game accommodates 2-5 players, which makes it perfect for small gatherings. It plays in about 15 minutes, making it easy to fit into your game night or to play as a quick filler between longer games.

What We Liked

One of the standout features of Exploding Kittens is its humor. The cards are illustrated by The Oatmeal, showcasing quirky characters like Tacocat and the All-Seeing Goat Wizard. This adds a fun layer of enjoyment, especially for kids and families. The easy-to-learn mechanics mean anyone can jump in without needing lengthy explanations.

The game’s compact size is also a plus. You can easily toss it in a bag for road trips, camping, or even a casual family evening at home. Plus, its replayability is impressive; each game feels fresh due to the mix of strategies and card combinations.

What Could Be Better

While Exploding Kittens is great for casual play, it may not be challenging enough for hardcore gamers seeking deep strategy. With a limited player count, larger groups might need to find alternative games to accommodate everyone. Additionally, the humor may not resonate with everyone, so it’s worth considering your group’s taste before diving in.

Who It’s For

This game works best for families and casual gamers. It’s accessible for kids aged 7 and up, making it a solid choice for family game nights. If you enjoy light-hearted fun and quick rounds, Exploding Kittens will likely be a hit.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
  • Fast-paced gameplay
  • Humorous and quirky illustrations
  • Easy to learn, great for all ages
  • Compact and travel-friendly
  • High replayability
  • Cons:
  • Limited to 2-5 players
  • May lack depth for serious gamers
  • Humor may not appeal to everyone
  • Some players may find the strategic options limited

FAQ

What is the age range for Exploding Kittens?

This game is designed for players aged 7 and up, making it suitable for families and kids.

How many players can play at once?

Exploding Kittens accommodates 2-5 players, which makes it ideal for small groups.

How long does a game take?

Each game of Exploding Kittens typically lasts around 15 minutes, perfect for a quick round during game night.

Is it easy to learn?

Yes, the game is straightforward and easy to pick up, even for those who aren’t seasoned gamers.

For an easy way to keep track of scores while playing Exploding Kittens, check out our free score keeper for card games.

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