The Best Worst Ice Cream Game
Match adorable ice cream figurines in this cooperative game where you play against the deck, not each other. Ages 4+, 2–5 players, 10 mins. Sweet fun!
The Best Worst Ice Cream Game is a delightfully simple cooperative matching game where everyone plays together against the deck instead of competing with each other. Based on the original matching game Mantis, this ice cream-themed retheme features adorable ice cream figurines that bring the game to life. Perfect for young children (ages 4+) and families, it's quick (10 minutes), easy to learn (under a minute), and celebrates teamwork and shared victory.
How to play
Players work together to match ice cream figurines and cards. On your turn, reveal a card from the deck and try to match it with an ice cream figurine in play. If you match correctly, place the figurine aside and continue. If you don't find a match, the card stays in play. The goal is to match all ice cream figurines before the deck runs out. Because you're playing against the game rather than each other, everyone wins together or loses together—there's no competition, only cooperation. Games are quick, so even if you lose, you'll want to shuffle and play again immediately.
Why you'll love it
The Best Worst Ice Cream Game succeeds because it removes competition in favour of teamwork. Young children (ages 4+) love it because there's no pressure: you're all working toward the same goal, and even when things go wrong, it's a group effort. The adorable ice cream figurines add charm and tactile appeal, making the game visually engaging and fun to handle. The cooperative mechanic teaches children about working together and celebrating shared success—ideal parenting moments. At 10 minutes, it's perfect for preschoolers with short attention spans or as a quick warm-up before other games. It's also excellent for mixed-age groups because the simple rules don't disadvantage younger players. Perfect for families, early childhood settings, or anyone seeking a gentle, inclusive game that brings smiles.
Game details
• Players: 2–5
• Playing time: 10 minutes
• Age: 4+
• Genre: Matching, cooperative, children's game
• Themes: Ice cream, sweetness, cooperation, fun
• Gameplay: Cooperative matching, card reveal, figurine matching, shared win/loss
• Mechanics: Memory matching (optional), simple card play, group decision-making
• Components: Ice cream figurines, matching cards, game deck
• Win condition: Match all ice cream figurines before the deck runs out
• Loss condition: Deck runs out before all figurines are matched
• Player elimination: None (cooperative—all players succeed or fail together)
• Design base: Retheme of the original Mantis matching game
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