Rat-a-Tat Cat
- Designer Monty Stambler , Ann Stambler
- Publisher Gamewright , 999 Games , Albi , AMIGO , Art Games
- Illustration Chris Van Dusen , Björn Pertoft , Roni Shepherd , Markus Wagner
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Rat-a-Tat Cat, players aim to improve their hidden card hand to have the lowest total score, using memory and tactical choices. You draw cards, decide whether to swap or discard, and use action cards to interact with opponents. The game combines Memory with Push-Your-Luck and Take-That, ending after several rounds with the lowest score winning.
Who Is This Game For?
Rat-a-Tat Cat is a children's game suitable for ages 6 and up, ideal for families seeking simple rules and quick rounds. With 2 to 6 players and about 10 minutes per game, it requires no prior experience and encourages memory and tactical thinking.
How It Works
Each player starts with face-down cards, some briefly revealed. On your turn, you draw from the draw or discard pile and decide whether to replace one of your cards or discard the new card. Action cards let you swap cards with others or peek at cards. A player can knock to end the round, then scores are revealed. The goal is to have the lowest sum by remembering and improving your cards.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Monty and Ann Stambler, Rat-a-Tat Cat won the Mensa Select award in 1996. It blends Memory with Push-Your-Luck and Take-That mechanics, is part of the Animals family, and is similar to the game Golf but tailored for children with fast gameplay and social interaction.
Awards
1996
Pro
- Short playtime around 10 minutes
- Easy to learn for children aged 6 and up
- Combines Memory with Push-Your-Luck
- Player interaction via action cards like swapping and spying
Contra
- Limited to 2 to 6 players
- Relatively simple with little expert depth
- Minimal thematic depth
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game features cats and rats in a playful animal theme. It is a card game focused on memory and clever card management without a complex narrative.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on remembering card values and watching other players' reactions carefully.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Rat-a-Tat Cat is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 10 minutes, allowing for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is a children's game with simple rules, so no prior experience is necessary.
How does this compare to similar games?
Rat-a-Tat Cat uniquely combines Memory with Push-Your-Luck and Take-That mechanics, optimized for children, similar to the game Golf.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is family-friendly, suitable for children aged 6 and up, with easy rules and short playtime.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Memory, Push Your Luck, and Take That mechanics creates an engaging and interactive experience.
Fazit
Rat-a-Tat Cat is a recommended children's game with easy mechanics and short playtime, great for families. It suits players who enjoy memory and light tactics in quick sessions.
