It’s been a long time since I played the original bop it! game. Come to think of it, that was probably over 15 years ago, and to think of all the things that have happened since then is just mind-boggling. But here we are in 2012 and the bop it! has evolved over time – spawning numerous off-shoots and reimaginings, the latest of which is the bop it! SMASH. Shipping to retail as I type, the new game leans heavy on the ‘SMASH,’ while leaving the ‘BOP’ behind.
Roughly the same size as a Shake Weight (yeah, I have one) but light as can be, bop it! SMASH challenges players to “catch light” by smashing the ends of the toy at just the right moment to stop the game as light enters “the zone” – a series of three lights, preferably the big blue one right in the middle. Stopping on blue gains you five points, while either green light to the side snags you just one. Anywhere else, and you lose one of your maximum three “lives” – though those can be replenished with a proper catch.
Pictured: bop it! packaging, and the game in the hands of a 33-month-old.
bop it! SMASH is one of those games that can be considered both addictive and irritating. On one hand, you just know you can best your high score, but on the other – you just know you can best your high score @#$! The Rock Father prefers the “solo” action, while “Pass It” and “Multiplayer” offer gameplay for up to six people. Not satisfied battling the computer alone? Grab some friends to become foes and game on!
Bottom Line: The multiple levels offer for increasingly difficult, yet highly entertaining gameplay. With each level comes new combinations of light and sound, which will throw you a curve every now and again. Advertised for ages 8+, that’s probably accurate as younger kids would find more frustration than entertainment. A week into our gameplay here at Rock Father HQ and we’re finding this a good time-killer in-between more pressing matters. It’s fun, but in moderation.
My top score so far is 89 points, achieved moments after my wife declared that she “rules” at the game with only 40 points. Take that for what you will.
bop it! SMASH will be available at retailers Nationwide this June for a suggested price of $19.99
The Rock Father Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars
FTC Disclosure: A bop it! SMASH was provided to The Rock Father on behalf of HASBRO GAMES for the purpose of review consideration. All opinions are that of James Zahn.
