Guest Author - Megan Romer

I Spy Memory Game, by Briarpatch Games, is a new twist on the classic memory game. Like many Briarpatch Games, it is several games in one, which allows for the game to be playable for several years as children get older. The most basic version of the game is suitable for kids aged 5 and up.

The most basic game involved is a simple matching memory game, where players flip cards over, trying to find a match. Unlike a typical memory game, the cards do not match exactly, rather, the same focal point (a key, for example) is shown in two different settings, which adds a little bit of difficulty. Players can play this version of the game either competitively or cooperatively.

The game also comes with a set of poem cards, much like the poems in I Spy Books. The poem cards basically give a little four-line scavenger hunt to the players, and the elements the poems describe are not the main pictures on the cards, but rather little objects around the pictures. It's tricky, and sometimes a bit difficult to find the objects, but it's very fun. Again, this version of the game can be played either competitively or cooperatively.

I SPY MEMORY GAME AT-A-GLANCE:

GAME BOX INCLUDES: 60 Memory Cards, 15 Riddle Cards, Game Instructions

YOU'LL NEED: Nothing

SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE: $19.99

AWARDS WON: Parent's Choice Gold Seal, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Seal, Teacher's Choice, and more!

TRY IF YOU LIKE: I Spy Books, Memory Games

PERFECT FOR: A child who's grown slightly out of a traditional memory game but still really likes the game.

RATING: Four little gold stars out of five.