Apples to Apples
- Designer Matthew Kirby , Mark Alan Osterhaus
- Publisher 64 Ounce Games , Beverly Enterprises, Inc. , Excalibur Electronics , Holiday Games , Mattel, Inc.
- Illustration John Kovalic
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Apples to Apples, the active player draws an adjective card while other players select noun cards from their hands that best match the adjective. The active player then judges which noun card fits best and awards it to that player. This process continues with the judge role rotating. The game is quick, fun, and relies on players' opinions and humor, suitable for 4 to 10 players in about 30 minutes.
Who Is This Game For?
The game is designed for players aged 12 and up who enjoy social wordplay in larger groups. As a party game, it is easy to learn and requires no prior experience. With a playing time of around 30 minutes, it fits well into casual game nights.
How It Works
Each round, one player acts as the judge and plays an adjective card, while all other players simultaneously select a noun card from their hand (Hand Management, Simultaneous Action Selection). The judge evaluates these cards and chooses the best match (Player Judge). The player whose card is chosen becomes the next judge. The game ends when a player collects the required number of adjective cards.
What Makes It Special
Apples to Apples won the Mensa Select award in 1999 and was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award the same year. It is a classic party game featuring Player Judge and Hand Management mechanics. As part of the 'Mechanism: Judging Games' family, it has inspired many digital versions and remains a staple in social gaming.
Awards
2003
1999
- 1999 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Supports 4 to 10 players
- Short playtime of about 30 minutes
- Mensa Select Award winner 1999
- Simple and quick to learn rules
Contra
- Not playable solo
- Limited complexity for experienced gamers
- Requires a larger group to play
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game has no specific theme and focuses purely on fun word comparisons and player interaction, making it a straightforward word and party game.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on enjoying the wordplay and staying open to different interpretations during card selection.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Apples to Apples requires at least 4 players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 30 minutes, suitable for quick sessions with minimal setup.
What prior experience do I need?
No prior experience is needed as the rules are straightforward and easy to learn.
How does this compare to similar games?
Apples to Apples stands out with its Player Judge mechanic combined with Hand Management and is a classic in the party game genre.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for ages 12 and up, ideal for larger family groups who enjoy word games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Player Judge mechanic, where one player decides the best match each round, gives the game its unique dynamic.
Fazit
Recommended for groups looking for a quick, social party game. Not suitable for fewer than four players.
