Level Up^*

Level Up (German: Level 8) is a Ravensburger family card game for 2 to 6 players. Like Phase 10, you complete eight melds in order.

What is it about?

Each level asks for a specific meld. Sometimes it is three cards in a row, sometimes seven cards of the same colour. Only once you finish a level can you move on to the next. The first player to complete level eight ends the game.

A turn

1. Draw a card from the deck or the discard pile.
2. Check whether your current level's combination is complete.
3. If it is, lay those cards down.
4. Discard one card and pass the turn.

It sounds simple, and it is. The tension comes from everyone sitting on different levels while watching what the others throw away.

What stands out

• Clear rules, explained in five minutes
• Works for families with kids from 8
• Nominated for the 2008 Kinderspielexperten award (ages 8 to 13)
• Many editions, including licensed versions with Stitch or Super Mario

Who is it for?

The BGG community likes it best with four or five players. A full game can run about an hour, because some levels refuse to come together.

Conclusion

Level Up is a solid family card game with few surprises. Phase 10 fans get almost the same game in a slightly different coat. If you already own something similar, you can skip it.