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Wat'n dat!? AS D'OR NOMINÉ 2008 SPIEL DES JAHRES EMPFOHLEN 1996

Wat'n dat!?

3-8
Players
60
Minutes
10+
Age
1996
Published

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What to Expect

In Wat'n dat!?, you create words using glass beads and sticks under a timer, without speaking or gesturing. Your teammates try to guess your words to score points. The game encourages creative, silent communication and quick thinking in groups of 3 to 8 players.

Who Is This Game For?

Designed for players aged 10 and up, this game suits groups looking for easy-to-learn, fast party games. No prior experience is needed, and the approximately 60-minute playtime fits well into casual game nights with friends.

How It Works

Without classic mechanics like worker placement or deck building, the game focuses on nonverbal communication using simple components such as glass beads and sticks. A sand timer pressures players to form as many words as possible quickly. Players form teams with one player creating words and others guessing.

What Makes It Special

Designed by Claude Weber, Wat'n dat!? was recommended for Spiel des Jahres in 1996 and nominated for the As d’Or in 2008. Part of the NSV Middys series, it stands out by forbidding speech and drawings, relying solely on tactile components.

Awards

AS D'OR NOMINÉ 2008
Nominated
2008
SPIEL DES JAHRES EMPFOHLEN 1996
Recommended
1996

Pro

  • Spiel des Jahres 1996 recommended
  • Party game without speech or drawing
  • Supports 3 to 8 players
  • Fast-paced rounds with timer

Contra

  • No complex traditional game mechanics
  • Not suitable for solo play
  • Limited thematic depth

Setting & Atmosphäre

The game has no specific theme, focusing instead on word formation with simple materials. It fits in the Action/Dexterity and Party categories without a storyline.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on creating clear, simple shapes with the materials so your team can guess quickly.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

No, Wat'n dat!? is designed for 3 to 8 players and has no solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

A session lasts about 60 minutes, ideal for an evening with multiple players.

What prior experience do I need?

The game is suitable for beginners and requires no special prior knowledge.

How does this compare to similar games?

Wat'n dat!? forbids speech and drawing, relying only on simple materials like beads and sticks.

Is this suitable for families?

Yes, with a minimum age of 10 and simple rules, it works well for families.

What mechanic makes it special?

It uses no classic mechanics; its focus is on nonverbal communication and time pressure.

Fazit

Wat'n dat!? is a party game for groups who enjoy quick, word-based challenges without speaking or drawing. Ideal for players 10 and older who appreciate creative team play.