Pop up Pirate

Rules

The pirate is placed into a spring-loaded barrel and rotated to randomize the unlucky slot. Players must take it in turns to insert plastic swords into slots in the side of the barrel. If a player inserts the sword into a specific slot (which changes randomly every time the game is played), the pirate is launched out of the barrel and the player is out. The last player remaining after all others have been knocked out wins.

Educational value

According to Dominic Wyse the game improves children's motor skills, as well as in common with other games promoting turn-taking and having fun together with others.

Variations

Themed version

Alternate versions replacing the pirate with other subjects have been released, including comedian Hard Gay, Darth Vader, Mario and Monkey D. Luffy, the protagonist of another popular Japanese property about pirates, One Piece.

Pop-up Pirate Treasure Island

A variation of Pop-up Pirate, Treasure Island adds board game elements by having players race to be the first person to collect 6 gold coins from a treasure chest Blackbeard is guarding. Only one key opens the treasure chest though.

Video game

Tomy has also released a video game version of Pop-up Pirate. Available as a WiiWare game, it was released in Japan on November 25, 2008, and in Europe on February 13, 2009. The North America version is titled as Party Fun Pirate, which was released on April 13, 2009.

The game is essentially a digital version of the game, but also includes a single player logic puzzle mode. Players are also able to replace the pirate with one of their own Miis.