Game Review: A Charlie Brown Christmas Game

Now that we are in the middle of Lent, what could be more incongruously festive than a Christmas board game?

This isn't just any Christmas board game. It is based on the beloved classic A Charlie Brown Christmas, which many good people watch religiously every December, along with other classics like It's a Wonderful Life and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (which would probably make an awesome board game!). Does this game measure up to its classic inspiration or is it merely a cheap attempt to cash in on Snoopy's popularity?

The game follows a standard roll and move format, except you have a spinner with numbers from one to five instead of a six-sided die. The board has spaces with candy canes where players collect candy canes. Other spots have "Happy Holidays" written on them where players collect a card from the deck. The cards have a variety of actions, like "lose a turn," "spin again," "move three spaces," "collect a candy cane," "lose a candy cane," and "give a present to someone." The way to win the game is to collect three candy canes and give away three presents to other players and return to the starting point. If the player collects extra candy canes, he or she can trade in three candy canes to give a present to someone.

The game is fairly easy to learn. Both my two-year old and four-year old have played several times. And it is fun, having the spirit of giving and receiving. The board and components are nicely decorated with Schulz's art. The game doesn't take too long. Normally Jacob the four-year old will finish; Lucy doesn't quite make it to the end every time. I enjoy playing a game with them and the children's enjoyment makes me happy. I'd recommend this to any family.

Game board, box, and components for A Charlie Brown Christmas

Zombie Apocalypse Appropriateness: This game could pack down a little bit smaller though the instructions are printed on the box, so you'd have to tear that out to have everything. It is a fun game to play with kids but adults may find it boring. It won't make for much of a solitaire game, either. On the other hand, it is important not to lose track of time during the apocalypse. Don't forget about your calendar, otherwise you won't be able to celebrate the important holidays, like Christmas, Easter, and your birthday.