Balderdash
- Designer Laura Robinson , Paul Toyne
- Publisher Canada Games Company Lmt. , Casper , Drumond Park Ltd. , The Game Works, Inc. , The Games Gang, LTD
- Illustration Búi Kristjánsson
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Balderdash, players invent plausible definitions for obscure or rare words to fool their opponents. After a word is read aloud, everyone writes down their definitions secretly. Players then vote on which definition they believe is correct. Points are awarded for guessing correctly and for fooling others. The game emphasizes bluffing and creative guessing in a social setting.
Who Is This Game For?
Balderdash is designed for 2 to 6 players aged 12 and up. It is a family-friendly game lasting about 60 minutes. It suits players who enjoy word games and bluffing. No prior experience is needed, and the rules are easy to learn, making it accessible for casual groups.
How It Works
The game uses Paper-and-Pencil and Voting mechanics. A player reads a rare word, and everyone writes down a definition secretly. Then all definitions are read aloud, and players vote on the one they think is correct. Points are earned for correctly guessing the real definition and for each vote your fake definition receives.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Laura Robinson and Paul Toyne, Balderdash won the Årets Spel Best Family Game award in 1990. It is a classic party game that reinterprets the traditional Dictionary parlour game. Its unique blend of bluffing and wordplay has made it popular since 1984.
Awards
- 2020 Guldbrikken Best Parlor Game — Nominated
- 2016 Årets Spill Best Party Game — Nominated
- 1990 Årets Spel Best Family Game — Winner
Pro
- Encourages creativity and bluffing
- Simple rules, easy to learn
- Suitable for 2 to 6 players
- Winner of Årets Spel Best Family Game 1990
Contra
- Not suited for players who dislike word games
- About 60 minutes playtime requires some patience
- Recommended for ages 12 and up, not for young children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game revolves around inventing definitions for unusual words, without a specific narrative theme. It builds on the classic parlour game Dictionary, focusing on language and imagination.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on creating plausible but not obvious definitions to successfully fool other players.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Balderdash is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 60 minutes, depending on player count and pace.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is easy to access and requires no prior experience, ideal for family play.
How does this compare to similar games?
Balderdash combines Paper-and-Pencil with Voting mechanics and focuses on bluffing with word definitions, setting it apart from other word games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, suitable for ages 12 and up with simple rules, making it good for families who enjoy word games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Paper-and-Pencil and Voting encourages player interaction and bluffing.
Fazit
Balderdash is recommended for players who enjoy communicative and creative party games. It fits well in social settings where bluffing and word humor are central.
