One of the few games that my sons, ages 3 and 7, can play together is Rivers, Roads And Rails. Players work cooperatively or competitively, matching tiles to create a twisting, continuous network of rivers, roads and railroads.
The kids get so into this game that sometimes the tiles end up branching out across the entire table or floor! This game challenges kids' observation and spatial skills because not all tiles match: some have only one river, road or rail, other may have 2, 3 or a combination. (Note: Affiliate links included below.)
Rivers, Roads And Rails is one of New Kid and Kiddo's favorite games because it is easy enough for both of them to understand and challenging enough for Kiddo to not to get bored. It is one of my favorites because there is little fighting between the two of them when they play!
Special Considerations:
- The official Rivers, Roads And Rails rules of include three variations of game play, but we have found that the less competitively you play, the more enjoyable the game.
- The rules state that when a player cannot play, he draws only one card and if he still cannot play the next player takes his turn. We find the game works better if a player simply draws until he chooses a card he can play.
- The boys' favorite way to play is simply to spread out all the tiles and create the most intricate routes they can.
- There are two tiles which branch off in three directions. We like to start with one of those tiles and set aside the other for the midway point of the game.
- Kids who are fascinated with maps and vehicles (not that I know any kids like that...) will LOVE this game.
Tips for Playing with Younger Children:
- Rivers, Roads And Rails is great for playing on the floor -- perfect for little bodies who can't sit still in chairs.
- New Kid is almost 4 and can play with his brother without me, but when he was younger we played in teams.
- If you have children younger than 3.5 give them a few tiles on the side to match, while older kids play.
Previous Games of the Month:
Skip-bo
Colorku
Animal Bingo
Qwirkle
Rummikub
OR visit my Games Gift Guide for Kids
Fanny Harville says
This is going straight to the Christmas list. I am sure it would be a huge hit with my transport-loving boy!
Mom and Kiddo says
They boys love it. I know you son is a year older than Kiddo, but it would probably still be interesting for him.
Even in Australia says
This sounds a lot like the adult game Carasconne (sp?) which, spatially challenged as I am, found very difficult. But fun.
Mom and Kiddo says
I've never played Carcassonne, but I think it's much more complicated than Rivers, Roads and Rails.
Natalie says
Dang, I wanted to profile that one on my game list 🙂 Anna is enjoying it as well, my only beef is amount of space it takes.
Nicole says
I've been considering this came for awhile now. It's good to read a review. It's a toss up between this and Labrynth for my 8yo boy.
Mom and Kiddo says
Nicole, I've not played Labyrinth (I assume you are talking about the Ravensburger game?), but for an 8 year old, Labyrinth might be the better choice if you don't want him to outgrow the game -- Labyrinth does look more involved which can be more interesting for older kids. Rivers, Roads and Rails is good if you have younger kids who will want to play, too.
Nicole says
That's a good thought. He'll need something more challenging. Maybe Roads & Rails for the 4yo, Labrynth for the 8yo. Thanks for the comment on my blog. 🙂
sustainablemum says
This game looks great, thank you for sharing.
Janelle @ Brimful Curiosities says
Now that I've seen this on your blog and Natalie's I think I must look into purchasing. Pretty sure my son would love it and my daughter is easy to please when it comes to games.
Mom and Kiddo says
The nice thing about the game is that you don't have to play competitively. My boys usually just work together to build a complex network.
Jennifer Fischer says
This game looks great. When my youngest is a bit older, I think my two boys would love playing this game together too. Will be pinning as a reminder!