You may have heard of Ubongo, the fast-paced geometric tile board game that’s as fun as it is competitive. Now, the game is shrinking down to a travel-size version fit to play wherever and whenever … dare we call it, Ubon*the*go?!
Ubongo: The Brain Game to Go maintains the game’s iconic gameplay with 20 puzzle cards, 15 plastic tiles, and a rule book with solutions. Designed for kids ages 8 and up, every component of the game comes stored in just one plastic case complete with a clear door to display the cards and a drawer to hold the tiles. Each of the puzzle cards features five puzzles on both sides, amounting to 200 (yes, 200!) total puzzles.
In this single-player puzzle game, the goal is to fit a set of the uniquely shaped, interlocking tiles perfectly into a specific area. With the compact version, the carrying case doubles as a gameboard and has adhesive ridges that connect to each puzzle piece.
For novice Ubongo players like myself, the instructions are clearly laid out in the manual and are relatively simple, making the only challenge in this game the puzzles themselves. Every puzzle has a corresponding key with images of its designated tiles, so kids will have no trouble picking out the necessary pieces. As kids burn through the cards and progress toward mastery, the puzzles get increasingly more challenging with larger spaces to fill.
The best part about this Ubongo version is its neat storage and mobility. Measuring about 3 by 5 inches, the case can slip right into any backpack or pocket without the risk of any loose items. Be warned, however, that though this is an on-the-go game, it’s best played on a still, flat surface where tiles can be spread out. It is still travel-friendly if you play on an airplane tray table or at a road trip rest stop.
If you’re looking for fun your little one can take anywhere, Ubongo: The Brain Game to Go is a no-brainer!
