Matthew BaileySo the main issue today is I am looking at kinda 2 (potentially even sorta 3) games and I had a lot of internal discussion as to whether this was counted as 1 or multiple games. In the end, as I joined them together and the other we didn’t play a lot and I only got it out to take photos I decided this would be…
Game 32 of the “Bailey Family Summer 2023 Board Game Bonanza” features “Screwball Scramble” and “Screwball Scramble Level 2,” played by Jack (8.), Toby (5), and myself in a time trial manner.
Today, we’re taking a slightly different route and exploring something mainstream yet distinct: a couple of dexterity-based “mechanism” games — “Screwball Scramble,” a nostalgic gem from our childhood, and more notably, the relatively new “Screwball Scramble Level 2,” released in recent years.
“Screwball Scramble” is a dexterity and skill-oriented marvel of a game where you manoeuvre a metal ball through a maze using various mechanisms, demanding a fair share of precision to complete it in the shortest time possible.
The original “Screwball Scramble” has been around since the late 70s, and I’m quite confident that many of us had it, or at least had a chance to play it during our childhood. The modern version hasn’t undergone significant changes and retains the same nostalgic track. Some elements are better executed than others; the metal bars and the maze itself remain favourites. It’s not particularly challenging once you get the hang of it, but the joy of racing and striving to better your time is ever-present.
The second level, introduced a few years ago, can be played as a standalone game, but more importantly, it can be integrated with the original (although it’s a bit strange, as you’re required to play the new one first) to create one expansive level. The creators made a conscious effort to introduce obstacles that are notably distinct from the first game, which I commend them for. The challenges in level 2 are notably more intricate than those in level one. However, I’m not entirely convinced that in many instances, they necessarily improve the experience. The corkscrew section, for instance, demands a slow and cautious approach to navigate successfully, while the pinball-type section requires a good deal of skill to land the ball in the designated middle section.
One particular gripe I have is with the basin section where pushing the ball up leads it to one of two holes. Through sheer luck, the ball can either head toward the exit or send you backwards, forcing you to redo obstacles you’ve already conquered. I fundamentally disagree with introducing an element of luck into what should be a pure skill-based challenge. A game like this, where your otherwise excellent run can be marred by a mere toss of a coin, feels like a significant design flaw.
From a production standpoint, these games use mainstream ABS plastic as expected. However, the inclusion of metal and magnetic components is commendable. I must admit that I’ve never had a “Screwball Scramble” break, and if my dad hadn’t disposed of most of my childhood possessions when I went to university, I might still have my original one.
Speaking of the original, the version I had in the 80s was green and featured a jungle theme that worked remarkably well for its purpose. The newer iteration is bright and colourful, but it lacks a cohesive theme, which detracts from the overall package’s charm. For comparison, I’ve included a picture of my original 80s version.
Interestingly, there aren’t many games of this kind available. I’ve found myself quite fond of them. There’s also “Skull Island Adventure”, but is also typically available, reskinned, under supermarket store brands, which I’d recommend over either of these options if you’re interested in this genre. These types of games are more prevalent in Japan and other eastern countries. There are even Mario Kart-themed variations where two players can race against each other.
My personal favourite among these is a game called “Kong Man,” also produced by Tommy in the 80s. It was motorised and featured core magnets that guided your ball up the side of a mountain. Unfortunately, it’s no longer in production, but if you stumble upon it at a car boot sale, I’d wholeheartedly recommend picking it up.
In essence, while this review may have wandered a bit into discussing all sorts of dexterity-based mechanism games, I hope it provides an overview. If your children are intrigued by these types of games and based on those I’ve played, here’s my recommendation:
1. “Kong Man” (out of production)
2. “Skull Island Adventure”
3. “Screwball Scramble”
4. “Screwball Scramble Level 2”
