Bananagrams
- Designer Rena Nathanson , Abe Nathanson
- Publisher Bananagrams, Inc. , 999 Games , AURUM, Inc. , Broadway Toys LTD , DV Games
- Illustration Kendra Harrington , Sandy Nathanson , Aaron Nathanson
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Bananagrams, each player independently builds their own crossword grid using letter tiles in real time. Players race to use all their tiles and then draw new ones until the pool is depleted. The game requires no paper or board and comes with a banana-shaped pouch for tiles. Variants and a solo mode are included, making it flexible for different skill levels and player counts.
Who Is This Game For?
Bananagrams is suitable as a family game for children aged 7 and up, and for casual players who enjoy word games with a real-time twist. Its simple rules and short playtime of about 15 minutes make it accessible for beginners and ideal for quick sessions or warm-ups. Prior experience with word puzzles is helpful but not required.
How It Works
Each player starts with a set of letter tiles and tries to arrange them into a crossword-like grid. When a player uses all their tiles, all players draw new tiles from the shared pool. The game ends when no tiles remain and a player completes their grid. The real-time race and tile placement mechanics create a dynamic and fast-paced experience.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Rena and Abe Nathanson, Bananagrams was nominated for Årets Spill Best Party Game in 2010 and Guldbrikken Best Family Game in 2012. Its unique combination of real-time racing and word tile placement sets it apart from traditional crossword games. The banana-shaped pouch adds a distinctive thematic touch.
Awards
- 2012 Guldbrikken Best Family Game — Nominated
- 2010 Årets Spill Best Party Game — Nominated
- 2013/Spring Parents' Choice Gold Award Winner — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime around 15 minutes
- Real-time mechanic adds excitement and pace
- Includes solo mode
- Nominated for Årets Spill Best Party Game (2010) and Guldbrikken Best Family Game (2012)
Contra
- Real-time pressure can be challenging for newcomers
- Recommended for ages 7 and up
- Relatively simple rules with limited strategic depth
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game has a neutral theme focused on language and word formation with letter tiles. It lacks a narrative or historical setting, emphasizing vocabulary and speed instead.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on quickly forming simple words and practice in solo mode to get comfortable with the real-time aspect.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Bananagrams includes a solo mode for single-player play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 15 minutes, perfect for quick rounds.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic reading and spelling skills help, but no advanced experience is necessary.
How does this compare to similar games?
Bananagrams combines real-time racing with tile placement without scoring, distinguishing it from classic crossword games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, designed for children aged 7 and up and family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its real-time race and tile placement mechanics make it stand out among word games.
Fazit
Bananagrams is a quick and engaging word game ideal for families and word game enthusiasts who enjoy fast-paced play. Its real-time mechanics add excitement but may require some patience for beginners.
