UNO H2O Splash (2005)

About this game

This version of UNO includes transparent, waterproof cards similar to UNO H2O and a special Whirlpool device. The Whirlpool has random effects that appear when shook (it works like a Magic 8-Ball). The rules are simplified. For example, the winner conditions are no longer points based. The first player to win three hands wins the game. Also gone are rules regarding playing Wild Draw 4 Cards when you can play another card. The Whirlpool is activated by playing a special Splash card or playing a 0 or a 2. The next player must then shake the Whirlpool and follow the results: 1) Draw H2O - draw until they get a blue, 2, 0 or wild card. 2) Wave Right - show a card to the player on the right. 3) Wave Left - show a card to the player on the left. 4) Wipeout - reverse order of play (player who started the Splash must use the whirlpool) Other possible Whirlpool results are draw, discard and give cards. The cards and Whirlpool are contained in a sturdy plastic box, with a slide on/off lid.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 10.
• Rules load. At 1.5/5 this is a light game — explain it in a few minutes, good for a table that has not played much.
• Age. The publisher suggests 7 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.