Converting the Next Generation of Gamers: Mission Accomplished

Or: Heyyy Kiddies....I've Gotta Surprise for Yoooou

My neighbor's kids were off school today for Christmas break, and their confused mom asked me to check in on them a few times, since I'm at home all day. Poor things. So what does "Auntie Katie" suggest when the 13 y/o girl and 7 y/o boy come over to my house bored? Board games anybody? I was over at their house last weekend to teach the whole family how to play Clue (poor family didn't even know), and they loved it. This time, they needed something Clue-like for two players, so I showed them my glorious Board Game Closet of Glory and Doom and loaded them up with Clue: The Great Museum Caper. Sure, I think the game's a snore and an unworthy addition to the Clue family, but they might like it on a boring winter day, right?

RIGHT! They loved it. They loved it so much, I had to give it to them to keep. Plus their mother spent most of the day on eBay looking for a cheap copy of regular Clue. Awesome. And, you know what just tugs at a gamer's heart? Hearing that this little 7 y/o boy asked later that night, "Mommy, can I have a board game collection?" Sniffle. Another gamer is born.