Mouse Trap
- Designer Gordon A. Barlow , Marvin Glass , Harvey "Hank" Kramer , Burt Meyer
- Publisher Arxon , Aurimagic , Basic Fun, Inc. , Croner , El Greco
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Mouse Trap, 2-4 players cooperate to build a complex three-dimensional trap using gears and components, moving their mouse pieces around the board. Players collect cheese cards to lure opponents into the trap, then take turns activating the trap to catch others' mice. The last mouse remaining wins. The game blends dexterity, chance, and timing.
Who Is This Game For?
Mouse Trap is aimed at families and children aged 6 and up who enjoy action and dexterity games. With a playtime of about 30 minutes, it offers a light, accessible experience with simple rules and no prior experience needed.
How It Works
Players move their mouse pieces by rolling dice (Roll / Spin and Move) around the board while assembling the Rube Goldberg-inspired trap from movable parts like gears. Once fully built, a player can crank the trap to try to capture opponents' mice. The last remaining mouse wins the race.
What Makes It Special
Designed in 1963 by Burt Meyer and others, Mouse Trap is one of the first mass-produced 3D board games. It combines Race and Roll / Spin and Move mechanics with a unique mechanical construction that also serves as a visual centerpiece.
Pro
- Easy access for children aged 6+
- Combination of movement and mechanical construction
- Classic game with strong recognition
- Short playtime around 30 minutes
Contra
- Limited depth for experienced players
- Luck factor from dice rolling influences outcome
- No expansions or variants
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game centers on a playful mouse chase featuring the building of a complex mechanical trap. It is abstract and child-friendly without historical or realistic setting.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on correctly assembling the trap and watch for the right moment to trigger it.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Mouse Trap is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, suitable for a short family game session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is simple and child-friendly, requiring no prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Mouse Trap combines Race mechanics with a unique mechanical 3D trap construction.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for children aged 6 and up and easy to understand.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Roll / Spin and Move mechanic combined with the mechanical Rube Goldberg trap is key.
Fazit
Mouse Trap is a simple yet mechanically intriguing family game with high appeal for children aged 6 and older. It suits players who enjoy action elements and unusual components.
