Waka Waka
- Designer Rüdiger Dorn
- Publisher IELLO , KOSMOS , White Goblin Games
- Illustration Michael Menzel
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Waka Waka, you play as an African trader buying goods like salt, tea, and jewelry as cheaply as possible. Many goods are hidden, so you can send out a chimpanzee to peek before buying. The village shaman helps you as long as the fire burns, while other villagers offer special skills. The game blends Memory, Hand Management, and Set Collection in an engaging trading experience within the same world as Dorn's Jambo.
Who Is This Game For?
Waka Waka suits families and enthusiasts who enjoy tactical card games with economic themes. The 45-minute playtime fits players preferring shorter sessions. Recommended from age 10, it requires some experience with hand management and market tactics.
How It Works
Players use Action Points to perform actions such as buying hidden goods or activating the shaman. Through Contracts and Set Collection, players gather goods managed via Hand Management. Memory is key to remembering hidden cards, and the dynamic Market changes available goods. Planning and timing your moves to acquire valuable goods and maintain the shaman's favor is essential.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Rüdiger Dorn, Waka Waka expands the two-player game Jambo to support up to four players. It was nominated in 2012 for the Kinderspielexperten award for ages 8-13. The unique blend of Memory, Hand Management, and economic trading in an African setting distinguishes it.
Pro
- Combines Memory, Hand Management, and Market mechanics
- Supports 2-4 players with about 45 minutes playtime
- African trading theme with cultural elements
- 2012 Kinderspielexperten nominee
Contra
- Requires some experience with tactical card games
- No solo mode available
- Not suitable for very young children (10+ recommended)
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in East Africa, where you act as a trader dealing in goods like salt, tea, and jewelry. The thematic backdrop includes the village shaman and other villagers.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on remembering hidden cards and strategically using the shaman's abilities to gain trading advantages.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Waka Waka 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 45 minutes, suitable for a short to medium session.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic experience with hand management and tactical card games helps due to moderate complexity.
How does this compare to similar games?
Waka Waka expands the two-player game Jambo to 4 players and uniquely combines Memory with economic trading.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, recommended for ages 10 and up with medium complexity, fitting families who enjoy tactical card games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Action Points, Memory, and Hand Management provides varied gameplay.
Fazit
Waka Waka is recommended for families and enthusiasts seeking a short, tactical card game with an economic focus. Patience in tracking cards and market awareness is important.





























