TOMY Pop-Up Pirate Classic Children’s Action Game – 2–4 Players, Ages 4+

Our Verdict

Pop-Up Pirate has been a family first game for decades, and it still works for the same reasons: there is nothing to read, a turn takes seconds, and the moment Pirate Pete flies out of the barrel gets a shriek from four-year-olds and grandparents alike. Players take turns pushing a coloured sword into one of the slots, and the pirate pops at random, so nobody can plan their way to victory. The listing’s rules say whoever sends him flying is out and the last pirate standing wins; plenty of families play it the other way round. Because it is pure luck, a pre-schooler can beat an adult fair and square, which is exactly what makes a child want another go. It is small enough to bring to the grandparents’ and has no batteries to run down. The swords are small parts, so keep them away from babies and toddlers, and older children of eight or nine will soon want something with more decisions in it.

Key Features & Irish Specs

• Players take turns sliding coloured swords into the barrel until Pirate Pete pops out
• For 2–4 players aged 4 and up; listed in English
• Contents: barrel, pirate figure and 24 swords (six each in four colours)
• No batteries, no reading and no board to set up
• Contains small parts: not suitable for children under 3