Bärenpark

Bärenpark arrived as another small lesson in the oddly satisfying language of polyominoes. For six- and seven-year-olds, it has the right kind of clarity: they can grasp it quickly, set it up, and get on with it without an adult hovering over every decision. That is no small thing for a game brought out after a long day.

At its centre is the placing of polyomino pieces, as you manage your available space and build your park. It does not bury players in exceptions or ask them to hold too much in their heads. The game moves with a welcome directness, and early plays are easy to read.

Its most interesting corner is the flow of tiles you acquire, and how you choose to manage it. There is a little planning to enjoy there, but player interaction never develops enough force to hold the attention of people looking for more than a quiet spatial puzzle.

The advanced mode makes an effort to add a little more, but it does not fundamentally change the feeling: Bärenpark remains rather slight for other gamers. As a children’s game and a gentle introduction to the form, it is quietly excellent; as a destination for a group seeking depth, it is only a brief stop.