Shenanigrams

MERRY KISSMOUSE 

Recently, I’ve been on the lookout for word games to assist Jack with his spelling. Naturally, I was eager to try out “Shenanigrams” upon its arrival.

Game 12 of our “Fantastically Festive Christmas School Holidays 2023 Marathon” is “Shenanigrams”, played with Jack (.8.).

“Shenanigrams” is a tile-laying word game that could be likened to that exhilarating endgame phase in Scrabble where players are frantically trying to utilise individual letters. While it shares similarities with Bananagrams, “Shenanigrams” offers a unique gameplay experience worth exploring.

Each player starts with seven tags and five letters. Every turn mandates the placement of a tile. This tile can be connected to existing letters, consistently progressing towards the formation of a word. For instance, you can’t place a ‘Q’ followed by a ‘Z’ and then an ‘R’. Constructing a word of a minimum of three letters allows you to place one of your tags on it.

If an opponent subsequently extends that word, creating a new one in the process, they have the opportunity to claim the word, replacing your tag with theirs. This dynamic can result in an engaging back-and-forth that is surprisingly deep. Notably, the ‘Ss’ wield significant power, while the ‘Qs’ often prove challenging.

I genuinely enjoyed playing “Shenanigrams” with Jack. It served as an effective tool to enhance his spelling. The game’s design allowed us to concentrate on phonics. With the incremental introduction of a few letters at a time, Jack found it more manageable to construct words.

Having played several rounds, I found myself enjoying “Shenanigrams” more than anticipated. For families seeking an engaging word game, this one undoubtedly stands out.

In terms of quality, while the plastic tags are functional, their design could be better. Although the wooden tiles possess a pleasing aesthetic, I would have preferred a more durable material akin to the phenyl-based plastic used in games like Hive.

Nevertheless, “Shenanigrams” is a decent word game. Its different enough to warrant a place on your shelf, even if you already own games like Scrabble and Bananagrams. I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try.

Disclaimer: A copy of “CShenanigrams” was provided for the purpose of review by “Happy Yeti Games” via the “BoardGame Review Network UK”, but my thoughts and opinions are my own. Trying to get a five and eight-year-old to lie, you will find is very difficult.