David Bridges
For those who enjoyed playing with word refrigerator magnets back in the day, Ransom Notes brings a delightful wave of nostalgia that transports you back to simpler times. This game stands out with one of the most essential features of a successful party game: it requires no complex rules, setup, or lengthy explanations to get started. Each round kicks off with an open-ended question card, such as “describe a frightening medical condition.” Players are then given a selection of magnetic word tiles, which they creatively arrange into a response that fits the prompt. The beauty of each “ransom note” lies in its flexibility; it can be as elaborate or as whimsical as you wish. While you might occasionally possess the perfect words for a sensible reply, more often than not, you’ll need to tap into your creativity to construct something amusing and original. Sometimes, even just a word or two can spark a hilarious response.
Regardless of how you approach it, the combination of word tiles tends to lean towards the PG-13 spectrum, making it less risqué than other popular adult party games like Cards Against Humanity. This ensures that laughter is almost guaranteed with every round. Officially, each round is meant to conclude with a designated “winner,” with the game typically wrapping up after a set number of rounds. However, the true joy often lies in abandoning the scoreboard and allowing everyone to unleash their imagination to generate the funniest and most outrageous notes possible. The carefree spirit of creativity is what makes Ransom Notes not only entertaining but also a fantastic choice for gatherings with friends and family who appreciate humor. — Karissa Bell, Senior Reporter
Daniel Mercer
