Games of Change

New Boards Let Players Make Their Own Way

One trend that stood out in the games category at Toy Fair 2008, apart from select items with eco-friendly emphases, was the use of game boards that are either set up by players themselves or change significantly during play. The three examples below show variations of this trend, which could potentially become more popular if these particular options catch on:

Beyond Chess Set by BEYOND CHESS

Beyond Chess Set by BEYOND CHESS Beyond Chess comes with everything you need to play. The board is made of 64 high-quality, solid, plastic squares that measure 1.5"x1.5"x.25" and accommodate most chess pieces, plus two extra squares. This set includes standard Staunton-design chess pieces, a 12-page instruction booklet and a sturdy nylon backpack-style carrying bag. ( Watch Video) 11/21/2007 (MSRP: $34.99)

Flibbix™ by MERILLIAN, LLC.

With Flibbix™, players build their own board game, make their own rules and then play. It's super easy and lets players rebuild and replay the game as much as they want. Players race to the finish, but things can get wacky along the way — even the game board and rules can change during play. “It's the first-ever build-a-board-game set: Players can easily build and play their own, custom board game with Flibbix. Because each game is different, it has great replay value and players can make a game that’s fun and perfect for them,” Jason Ivan of Merillian told TDmonthly. Launch date: April 2008. ( Watch Video) 1/17/2008 (MSRP: $39.99; Age: 7 and Up)

Ruin by BUFFALO GAMES INC.

Ruin is a ruthless race for fortune and glory toward the center of an ancient Mayan ruin. Players move through and around an unpredictable and interchangeable game board. The distinctive 3-D game board allows you to change the path on every turn as game cards actually insert directly into the board. A perfect game for the entire family, this light-strategy game offers elements of skill, chance, luck and imaginative adventure. Launch date: April 1, 2008.
— "I appreciated that this toy was linked to an ancient culture, opening the door for discussion and history exploration," said TDmonthly Roundtable reviewer Teresa Wilson, whose four children, along with other kid-reviewers, enjoyed the strategic options the game affords. 1/8/2008 (MSRP: $29.99; Age: 8 and Up)