Let me start by saying this game is an absolute blast! Happy Little Dinosaurs is that rare gem that’s easy to learn but packed with enough strategy and sabotage to keep adults hooked, while still being accessible for kids. The premise? You’re a dino just trying to survive life’s absurd disasters—meteors, emotional breakdowns, and even getting ghosted by your dino date. The goal: be the first to 50 points or outlast everyone else.

The components are adorable—97 colorful cards, cute dino meeples, and player boards with vibrant artwork. Setup takes seconds, and games fly by in 30-60 minutes. I’ve played it with my partner (who now demands weekly rematches) and at game nights with friends. It scales perfectly from 2 to 4 players, and the expansions (like the 5-6 player pack) add even more chaotic fun.

Gameplay shines with its mix of luck and tactics. Each round, a Disaster card flips (Natural, Predatory, or Emotional), and you play Point cards to dodge or exploit it. The real magic? Sabotaging others by forcing disasters their way. My friend still hasn’t forgiven me for making their dino fall into lava—twice.

Pros: Lightning-fast rounds, laugh-out-loud disasters, and portable for trips (we’ve played in hotels!). Cons: The rulebook could be clearer initially, but after a round or two, it clicks. Also, while expansions add variety (looking at you, ‘Dating Disasters’), they’re not essential.

Verdict: Whether you’re a family battling screen time or adults craving lighthearted competition, this game delivers. Just don’t blame me when your inner demon cards make you cackle maniacally.