SmartGames Smart Farmer — Barnyard STEM Logic Puzzle, Ages 4+

Though marked as appropriate for ages 4 to adult, the simplicity of the design and additional marketing as a “preschool” game made me hesitate to purchase Smart Farmer for myself. While the price can be justified by the quality of the components and specialization of the parts, as well as replay value for anyone who, like me, is unlikely to remember any given solution, I wasn’t sure whether, as an adult, I would get my money’s worth out of the 60 challenges. And unfortunately, none of the reviews I saw seemed to address this when I tried to find out more. I was hooked by the concept though. In the end, the idea of separating cute little barnyard animals into their own paddocks was so appealing (for me) that I finally succumbed. So, how is it as a diversion for grown-ups? As expected, none of the first levels of challenges took more than a few moments to solve, though they were fun in their way for learning the mechanics of the game. Occasionally one would have me a little perplexed, but not often, and they were still quickly completed. Only the highest level, master, comprising 24 of the 60 total challenges, had me really putting on my thinking cap. I still ran through all of them in under an hour. My verdict? Nicely made, quality product, with some replay value, but by no means something likely to break your brain if playing as an adult. For the younger members of the target audience though, I’m sure it would provide a great deal of fun. I don’t personally regret my purchase because I really wanted to try it out, but for anyone who isn’t buying for the kids and wants to wring lots of playtime out of their games, this is probably not the best option. However, I did at least once solve a challenge that turned out to be a mistake on my part (I placed a starting piece wrong and didn’t know it until checking the answer). That leads me to think there could still be some more fun to be had in trying to discover other solvable placements not used in the official selection, if that kind of extra challenge is your cup of tea. And regardless of anything else, the little barnyard critters are definitely cute. ;)

Well liked by gift recipient; seems sturdy as all SmartGames we've purchased in the past (many), great for working the brain in a very fun way!

My son absolutely loves SmartGames Smart Farmer, and it’s been such a fun game for us to play together. The puzzles are engaging and really make him think, while still being easy enough for him to enjoy without getting frustrated. It’s a great mix of learning and fun, and I love seeing how excited he gets each time he solves a new challenge

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! My 5 year old loves it, and we found something smart to do together! He turned off the TV and asked me to go and continue the game! I will buy all your products!

AWESOME item! I Use this with my students and they absolutely LOVE the challenge! It’s enjoyable on so many levels. Does your child love animals? Does your child like tactile activities? This is an excellent and stimulating activity.

I loved this smart game and so do my grandchildren. We also have The Three Little Pig one which is fantastic. I did not give this one five stars because the instruction booklet has the answers in the back of the book (4 to a page) instead of the 3 pig one which has each answer on the back of the problem the child just completed. With the answers in the back of the book they are able to see the answers to three more when they are checking the one they did. That shows them how to do the next three. I hope the company fixes this. It is also easier for young kids to just turn the page and find it rather than having to serach for it in the back. (ages of grandkids 3, 6, 7 and their parents enjoyed the games too )

Purchased this for my 7 year old grandson for Christmas. He loved it.

What a brilliant design and idea. Challenging games for me lol. High quality made game, cute figures. My daughter usually tries to solve two puzzles then stop which is enough brain work. Very great educational and logically training toy. Need some parents involvement for me personally speaking.