Trouble
- Designer Frank Kohner , Paul Kohner , Fred Kroll
- Publisher Amuze , Anker Play Products , The Canadian Group , Cardinal , Cayro, The Games
- Illustration Peyo
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Trouble, players race their colored pawns around a circular track by rolling a die inside a Pop-O-Matic device. The goal is to be the first to get all pawns to the finish lane while sending opponents' pawns back to start when landing on them. The game is simple and fast-paced, suitable for young children and families, relying on Race and Roll/Spin and Move mechanics.
Who Is This Game For?
Trouble is aimed at families and children aged 4 and up. Its straightforward mechanics and short playtime make it an easy entry-level game without complex rules. It is a casual family game for 2 to 4 players requiring no prior experience, ideal for introducing young children to board games.
How It Works
Each player controls multiple pawns starting from their Home base. Players take turns rolling the Pop-O-Matic die. Only rolling a six allows a pawn to enter the track from Home. Pawns move forward according to the die roll. Landing on an opponent's pawn sends it back to Home. The game relies on Race and Roll/Spin and Move mechanics as players compete to get all their pawns to the Finish lane first.
What Makes It Special
Trouble's standout feature is the Pop-O-Matic die roller, which ensures quick, contained dice rolls. Designed in 1965 by Frank Kohner, Paul Kohner, and Fred Kroll, it is a simplified Pachisi variant in the Race game family. Although it has no major awards, its unique dice mechanism has become iconic.
Pro
- Simple rules ideal for children aged 4 and up
- Mechanical Pop-O-Matic die roller prevents lost dice
- Short playtime of about 45 minutes
- Race mechanic creates dynamic gameplay
Contra
- No solo mode, only for 2 to 4 players
- Limited strategic depth, highly luck-dependent
- Abstract theme without narrative context
Setting & Atmosphäre
Trouble is played on an abstract circular track board without a specific theme. Players move colored pawns around the track in a straightforward race format. There is no narrative or distinct world setting.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on getting your pawns into play quickly and make the most of rolling sixes to advance.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Trouble 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 around 45 minutes, which is moderate for a children's game.
What prior experience do I need?
No prior experience is required; the game is easy to learn and suitable for children aged 4 and up.
How does this compare to similar games?
Trouble uses the unique Pop-O-Matic die roller, making dice rolls quick and contained compared to traditional dice.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, Trouble is designed as a family game with simple rules and short playtime, ideal for children aged 4 and older.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Race and Roll / Spin and Move mechanics with the Pop-O-Matic die roller makes it distinctive.
Fazit
Trouble is a classic children's game with simple rules and a fast pace. It is especially suitable for families with young children seeking uncomplicated fun. It is less suited for experienced or expert players.
