Milton Bradley Don't Break the Ice Game Review

Don't Break the Ice Game by Milton Bradley

Don't Break the Ice is a simple and yet unique game.  There's a frame in which ice cubes are arranged until a floor of ice is formed.  Each player takes turns tapping out ice cubes but trying not to let the whole floor fall.  If you break the ice, it's game over.  The whole idea of banging (kids will quickly learn that tapping works better) is such a kid attractive idea.

This game doesn't take long to play and there aren't any tiny little pieces so it's a great family night game, with some exceptions I'll address below.

The good news is that this game is really inexpensive, often found for just $7.00.  The great news is that some kids will just love this game.  The bad news is that others will just "fall apart" as quickly as the ice does.

Don't Break the Ice is recommended for ages three and up and that may be the issue.  Often game recommendations are made based on safety rather than age appropriateness.  Playing it as a "game" it is difficult for three year olds to set stage up for themselves, which is one sign.  Second, in my experience three years old just can't handle it when they accidentally break the ice and the game is over just too soon.  When the ice falls, so do the tears.  

My suggestion for three year olds is to just set the game up and let them "play" with it and not make it a competition against another player.  They will enjoy the banging.

On the other hand, kids from about five to seven really enjoy the challenge of this unique game and can really figure out some strategies to keeping the game going longer.

My Viewpoint: Break the Ice would be a fun and inexpensive Christmas gift for five year olds.