Monkeys Up

Monkeys Up

Monkeys Up is a monkey-themed game where you flip, switch, and steal your way to victory.

There are 16 monkeys included in the game. Each monkey has either a number (from 2-15) or an X (equal to zero) printed on the base under his feet. There is one monkey for each number and three Xs. You can only see what's printed when you flip the monkey. Monkeys are approximately 2 1/16 inch tall. Looking at the monkey with the wide base of support on top and bottom you would think that they lend themselves to stacking, but they don't. Just too wobbly. 

Object:
Either have the highest score, or the three highest numbers at the end of the game. 

Set up:
Stand all the monkeys, number side down, in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses three monkeys. He can look at the numbers, but keeps the numbers hidden from the other players.

Play:
Taking turns, players will throw the die and follow the instructions:

• SWITCH - Trade one of your monkey for any other monkey on the table. (Two sides of die)
• STEAL- Take any monkey and place it in front of you. (One side of die)
• FLIP - Turn any monkey number side up. (Two sides of die)
• REVERSE - Pass the die in the opposite direction to reverse the direction of play. (One side of die)

The game will end when one player has three monkeys flipped number side up in front of him. I think this game is pretty pricey for what's included. It's based a little bit on strategy and a lot on luck.

Try this:

• Turn all the monkeys number side up and ask the player to line them up in ascending or descending number order.
• Place all the monkeys on their feet. Ask the player to pick up each monkey, turn it in-hand, and stand it on its head.
• Ask the player to cup his hand to shake the die. If he has difficulty, place a small ball in his palm to help him form the shape. Remove the ball and add the die. Shake the die for 10 seconds or while singing one verse of Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed to keep the hand arched in that position longer.
• Work on visual discrimination, visual memory, number recognition, manual dexterity, in-hand manipulation, palmar arch development, process skills, socialization skills, executive functioning skills, play and leisure exploration and participation

In the box: 18 monkeys, 1 die
 
If you are interested in purchasing this game or just want more information, click on the image below.