Super Heroes Giant Game Board Book (Tormont)

Background

Since I was reviewing the recently published Spider-Man 3: Board Game Book (Meredith), I figured it was about time I threw together a review for this other board game book which I purchased over ten years ago. I bought it at K-Mart for a few bucks, and I'm very glad I did! I wouldn't expect that there were too many of these left in decent condition.

Story Details

I actually bought this as a game, rather than a book - so I didn't put it in a bag, or protect it in any way. I even let the kids play with it heaps. Actually, putting it in a bag would be quite a challenge - the book is HUGE! It's roughly 16" x 23".

It's all in stiff card which has stood the test of time remarkably well, though the pages are a little bowed now. I seem to recall maybe it got a little wet at some point, but it doesn't show it.

On the outside is an electronic dice which makes beeping noises and flashes up a number from 1-6. It has a built in case for holding the play counters - four each of red, blue, green and yellow. Amazingly the kids haven't managed to lose any of the counters.

Inside are six huge double-page games to play. They're basically "snakes and ladders" type games. "Go ahead three. Go back ten spaces. Miss a turn. Take a second throw," that sort of thing. Many games involve having several counters active at once, and you can choose which to play - that at least gives you some decision-making input.

General Comments

The games are very simple, but the bright colors and little beeping electronic dice are guaranteed to entertain kids. The whole visual appeal of the book is top notch - featuring Spidey, Wolvie, Hulk, plus the Fantastic Four and a few other X-Men. Gambit and Jubilee have a big presence, which certainly dates the book.

The book has lasted incredibly well, and the sheer size of the book guarantees impact. You can just imagine the delight of some kid scoring this on a Christmas Day. That beeping electronic dice would have them banished to their bedroom before lunchtime!

Overall Rating

The games are simple but perfectly adequate. The artwork is fun and the sheer size of the book is a point in its favor. The components are sturdy, as is the book - resulting in a product which has well stood the test of time. Four webs.