Game Review: Mad Gab Mania

Mattel,

rebus: noun - a representation of words or syllables by pictures of objects or by symbols whose names resemble the intended words or syllables in sound.

“Mad Gab Mania” is a new DVD game from Mattel, based on their game “Mad Gab.” Some of you out there may already have guessed that these games are based on rebuses – word puzzles using pictures where you have to sound out the pictures to figure out the word or phrase that solves the puzzle.

Since we all love word games, the family was very interested in this one. In the game, two teams compete for the most points by solving rebuses. Throw in sound effects, hints, timers, a verbally abusive emcee, and a few other twists, and you have an entertaining party game.

The box contains the DVD, instructions, and two remotes - batteries not included. You need to follow the instructions carefully for programming the remotes using your own DVD player’s remote or you’ll wind up a tad frustrated. (Don’t ask me how I know that!) Once you have the remotes programmed, load the DVD, choose teams, decide who gets which color (blue and orange are the team choices), and play away.

We had a lot of fun with this game the first time. The only complaints we had were that the game offered “catch up” questions to the losing team to keep the game close. Upon further plays, we found this feature caused it to often be advantageous to not get a question right. As a matter of fact, on our second game, we got some repeat puzzles, and puzzles that gave the other team a chance to steal points with the same question. Because of that, repeat playability is limited.When we saw a question that could be stolen, no one wanted to answer the question, because the points would always wind up going to the other team.

All in all, I’d have to call this more of a party game than a family game. What I mean by that is that at parties, you might have different groups of people over who will be enjoying the game fresh each time, whereas in a family situation you’ll quickly find that you’re getting repeat puzzles that take away from the game’s replayability.

If limited replay doesn’t bother you for a game this price, then you’ll certainly have fun and a few laughs playing this game.