Are you bored of playing all the cliche board games at your family game night or friends’ party? Well, I brought the Happy Salmon game to my board game review table today! It stands out as one of the most frenzied party games ever enjoyed during game nights.

Its appeal comes from its fast pace and straightforward rules. The best part? The sheer chaos it brings making it an absolute hit. Imagine eight individuals vocally competing for attention, striving to establish connections while engaging in funny activities. Happy Salmon undoubtedly ranks high on our list of favorite games for game night.

The Happy Salmon Card Game: What Is It?

Happy Salmon is a quick 90-second game that is both fast and simple. It is super fun and great for any gathering. Playing the game involves a bunch of people around a table repeatedly shouting the same word until they switch to a new action and start the shouting cycle all over again. When two players match, they do the act together, toss the card, and go to the next one. You might hear “Happy salmon, happy salmon, HAPPY SALMON!” while watching someone funnily flail their arm across the table. 

Yes, it’s loud and can be chaotic, but there are many noisy things that are not half as enjoyable as this! The first one to get rid of all cards wins! It is that straightforward. While you can play with 3-8 players, having at least six people on the game table adds to the excitement. And if you can round up eight pals, the game becomes even more thrilling! 

Those watching might be scratching their heads, but the fun overshadows everything else when you’re in it, actually playing the game. The game has such straightforward rules that people who are not a fan of board games and often struggle with the rules quickly get the hang of it. Plus, kids can also compete on the same level as any grown-up, with no special treatment needed. 

The game’s small size and easy-to-carry nature mean it gets played everywhere! It comes in a compact box that includes a set of rules and a deck of cards. This deck has 8 distinct sets, each marked by a different color. Each pack consists of 12 cards with various actions. Every player picks a set of cards with the same color on the back.

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How To Play Happy Salmon?

Learning to play Happy Salmon is super simple and straightforward. Each player grabs a set of cards with its own color, shuffles them, and holds them face down. Everyone then forms a circle and waits for a countdown from 3.

When the countdown reaches “go,” players turn over their top card and yell out the action on it. They need to find another player yelling the same effort and do it together. After that, they can toss that card onto the table or ground. If other players can’t find a match quickly, they can skip and try another card.

The game’s aim? Be the first to throw down all your cards.

The game has four main actions:

1. Happy Salmon: Players slap their forearms against each other thrice.
2. Fish Bump is a fist bump or a “pound it.”
3. High Five: Just your standard high five.
4. Switch it Up: Players literally swap spots with one another. (Did I mention that you need to stand up while playing this game?)

Clearly, these actions are quite lively – from fist bumps and high-fives to slapping arms and dashing about. The game is a whirlwind of activity, always sparking laughter along the way.

The gameplay continues as players call out the actions on their cards, find a match with another player, and then act them out. The first person to discard all their cards becomes the winner!

How Many Players Can Play Happy Salmon?

Happy Salmon is suitable for 3-8 players. While playing with just 3 participants is possible, it becomes more enjoyable with at least six people. The more, the merrier!

How Old Should Players Be For Happy Salmon?

Happy Salmon is designed for those aged six and above. Players need to move around and communicate verbally to comprehend and perform actions. It is an excellent game for both kids (aged 6) and older.

Green And Blue Salmon: Is There A Difference?

Happy Salmon is available in two shades: green and blue. You might be curious about the distinction between the two. Well, the difference is minimal! While the case colors are distinctly different, inside both, you will find six identical sets of cards with the same actions.

But the card backs have varying colors, enabling you to expand the Happy Salmon madness from six to twelve players. However, if you do not have a large social gathering, you can stick to any one color of your choice!

Final Thoughts

Happy Salmon is a top recommendation for those who want to add some liveliness and spice to their upcoming game nights. Instead of merely sitting and moving pieces on a board, this game makes everyone stand up, get active, and perform silly actions to add to the fun and laughter. If that sounds like something your crew would enjoy, consider adding Happy Salmon to your game night collection!

What stands out about Happy Salmon is its fast-paced nature, allowing you to indulge in multiple rounds. For many, it has become a permanent resident in the game night bags because of its perfect remedy for any energy lull.

However, if your group is smaller, you might want to hold off until you gather a larger crowd. While the game can accommodate a few, the real thrill emerges with more participants. Having just three players reduces some of the fervor and enjoyment.

So, In our Happy Salmon game review, we have highlighted its place as perhaps the wildest party game you will encounter. Give it a whirl, and you will soon see its charm. Enjoy, and play on!