Spooky Stairs
- Designer Michelle Schanen
- Publisher Drei Magier Spiele , Competo / Marektoy , Devir , Enigma (Bergsala Enigma) , FunMill.ru
- Illustration Johann Rüttinger , Rolf Vogt
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Spooky Stairs, up to four children race up a spooky staircase in an old castle ruin. Players roll a magical die to move their pawns and must remember under which ghost their figure is hidden once covered. The game combines memory skills with luck in a magical ghost-themed setting.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets families with children aged 4 and up. It is a light family game with simple rules and a short playtime of about 15 minutes, making it suitable for players without prior experience.
How It Works
Players take turns rolling an enchanted die to move their pawn up the stairs. If a ghost symbol is rolled, a ghost piece covers another player's pawn, which the player must remember for the rest of the game. The mechanics involve Memory and Roll/Spin and Move, blending memory challenges with dice rolling.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michelle Schanen, Spooky Stairs won the 2004 Spiel des Jahres Kinderspiel award. Part of the Drei Magier ghost games series, it uniquely combines Memory and Roll-and-Move in a children's game context.
Awards
2004
Pro
- Winner of the 2004 Spiel des Jahres Kinderspiel
- Combines Memory and Roll-and-Move mechanics
- Short playtime of about 15 minutes
- Suitable for children aged 4 and up
Contra
- Only for 2 to 4 players
- Limited depth for experienced players
- Simple gameplay with little strategy
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in an old castle ruin featuring the titular ghost stairs, with magical and ghostly elements shaping the experience. The fantasy theme is aimed primarily at children and families.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on remembering under which ghost your pawn is hidden to keep up in the game.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Spooky Stairs is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not have a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 15 minutes, perfect for short play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is designed for children aged 4 and up and requires no prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Spooky Stairs uniquely combines Memory with Roll-and-Move, offering a child-friendly blend of luck and memory challenge.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is specifically designed as a family game for children aged 4 and older.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Memory and Roll/Spin and Move mechanics sets it apart.
Fazit
Spooky Stairs is a recommended choice for families with young children seeking a quick and memorable game. Its mix of dice rolling and memory makes it particularly child-friendly and engaging.



















