Spotlight
- Designer Hjalmar Hach , Lorenzo Silva
- Publisher Horrible Guild , Cranio Creations , GaGa Games , Lanlalen , LOKI
- Illustration Giulia Ghigini
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Spotlight, you and up to four friends cooperatively search for hidden characters and items on dark boards over five rounds. Using a special 'magic' flashlight, you illuminate parts of your transparent overlay to spot the hidden images. You must find as many as possible before the sand timer runs out, while avoiding being caught by the chasing Moon pawn. Communication is limited, so you rely on observation and pattern recognition.
Who Is This Game For?
Spotlight is a family-friendly game suitable for children aged six and up, also enjoyable for adults. With a short playtime of about 15 minutes, it fits well into quick gaming sessions. No prior experience is needed since the rules are simple and the cooperative gameplay supports beginners.
How It Works
Each player has a transparent overlay on top of a dark background, making it challenging to find patterns. At the start of each round, a hidden picture card is revealed. Players use their flashlight to illuminate parts of their board to find the target image. When time runs out, players guess how many images they found. The more found, the further their pawn advances on the track—but watch out for the Moon pawn that moves forward too. Rush tokens can save players from being caught.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Hjalmar Hach and Lorenzo Silva, Spotlight was nominated in 2025 for the As d'Or - Jeu de l'Année Enfant and the Gra Roku Children's Game of the Year. Its mix of cooperative real-time play, communication limits, and pattern recognition sets it apart among children's games.
Awards
2025
- 2025 Gra Roku Children's Game of the Year — Nominated
Pro
- Cooperative real-time gameplay with exciting time pressure
- Suitable for children aged 6 and up
- Communication limits increase the challenge
- Nominated for two children's game awards in 2025
Contra
- Short playtime of around 15 minutes
- May be too simple for older players
- Requires quick reactions and focus
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game takes place in a dark, whimsical world filled with quirky characters and objects to discover with flashlights. The atmosphere is playful and child-appropriate without complex backstory.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take your time to carefully observe patterns and use limited communication effectively to improve your team's results.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Spotlight supports solo play for a single player.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 15 minutes, ideal for short play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is simple and suitable for beginners, including children aged 6 and up.
How does this compare to similar games?
Spotlight stands out through its combination of real-time cooperative play, communication limits, and pattern recognition.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is designed as a cooperative children's game for ages 6+, making it great for families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The core mechanic is the blend of communication limits with real-time cooperative pattern recognition.
Fazit
Spotlight is recommended for families and children who enjoy quick, cooperative games with minimal downtime. Its simple mechanics and exciting time pressure create engaging short sessions, especially if you embrace the real-time aspect.
