Objective of the Game
The goal of SOS Monkey Business is to have the fewest monkeys once the game ends. Players try to keep the monkeys hanging on the tree as long as possible.
Setup
- Set Up the Tree: First, construct the palm tree in the middle of the playing area. The trunk is assembled from several interlocking segments and placed into the base.
- Insert Sticks: Insert the colorful sticks through the holes in the tree. These form a mesh that helps the monkeys hang on.
- Place the Monkeys: Drop the monkeys into the tree from the top so that they get caught in the mesh of sticks.
Game Play
- Determine Turn Order: Players decide who will start. The game proceeds in a clockwise direction.
- Player's Turn:
- Roll the colored die.
- Pull out a stick of the rolled color from the tree.
- If one or more monkeys fall when pulling out a stick, the player must collect them.
- End of the Game: The game ends when all sticks have been removed from the tree and no monkeys are hanging.
Winning
The winner is the player who has the fewest monkeys in front of them after all sticks have been removed.
Strategic Considerations
- Color Choice: Try to pull sticks that seem to have the least impact on the monkey loss. Observe how the monkeys are distributed to make better decisions.
- Risk Management: Sometimes it's better to pull a hard-to-reach stick first to avoid dangerous situations later.
SOS Monkey Business is a simple yet exciting game, particularly suitable for children and families, as it balances luck and skill perfectly.