Perplexus

Perplexus is a maze game.  A clear ball contains a convoluted plastic maze (it reminds me a bit of a plastic brain!) through which the player must maneuver a marble.

As the creators say, the game is “easy to play, hard to master.” After all, it’s a maze!  Actually, it’s three mazes in one; there are multiple tracks you can take.  Once you’ve figured it out, try to beat your own time.

The original Perplexus is recommended for ages 6-14; however, there are others.  Perplexus: Rookie is recommended for ages 6-10. Perplexus Epic (pictured at left), like the Original is recommended for ages 6-14. It is, essentially, the “sequel” to the Original.

We have, so far, only tried the Rookie.  We’ve only had it for two days (and haven’t solved it yet), but my daughters have had a blast with it!  They (and the neighbor) all think it’s “really cool.”  I like that it uses their minds and doesn’t have any batteries to replace.  (Also, although there are warnings on these that they’re not for young children because they contain small parts, they are completely self-contained.  They don’t open.  So younger siblings should be totally safe around these games.)  The little stand you see in the picture is included.

I think that the Epic and/or Original versions of the game would make great gifts for grown men.  Most of the men I know love to play games.  I would recommend the Rookie, to start with, for younger children.  Any of them would be good options for older elementary schoolers.

MSRP $22.99-29.99

Back to the Gift Guide

Disclosure: We received the Perplexus: Rookie and Perplexus: Epic to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions are entirely my own (and those of my family).