Does Your High Schooler Got Game? (continued)

Set (Ages 6 and up, for one or more players)

This game of visual perception was created by geneticist Marsha Jean Falco in 1974. Similar to a geneticist connecting the traits of animals and plants to the genes and chromosomes in their cells, players must sequence cards based on similarities and differences. The object of the game is to identify "sets" of three cards from 12 cards laid out on a table. Each card is unique in its four features: number (1,2, or 3); symbol (diamond, squiggle, or oval); shading (solid, striped, or open); and color (red, green, or purple). A "set" consists of three cards where each feature is either the same on all of the cards, or different on all of the cards. Players call out “Set” as soon as they see them, infusing the game with an exciting and challenging time element. The game promotes problem solving and deductive reasoning skills, in addition to bringing home the concept of probability. * * * * (Set Enterprises, $12.00)

Linq

(Ages 10 and up, 4 or more players) In this word game, players use strategy and bluffing skills to outwit their opponents. Players are handed a card which no one else can see. Two people will wind up with a word card, while everyone else gets a ???, or bluff card. Each player gives a word clue and the goal is to guess which two players have the “linq” or the word clue. While the words won't exactly be new vocabulary, creating unique ways to describe words like “trade” or “compact” is great practice in communication skills. The bluffing portion of the game also requires emotional intelligence to “read” body language. This is a fun game for a teen's night in with family or friends. * * * (Endless Games, $19.99)