Christmas is a time of giving. Furthermore, it is a time to meet friends and family and spend quality time together. Whether it is a film, a board game, or a video game, it matters not. The important thing is the time you spend together. If time is limited, you’ll want something addictive and easy to master. Moreover, it needs to be quick to complete—step forward Jackbox Survey Scramble.
This family-friendly quiz game was developed and published by Jackbox Games, Inc. What’s more, it is a 2-10-player experience that can be enjoyed with a TV and any mobile device. This flexibility was impressive and I enjoyed its straightforward nature. Additionally, you can drop in and out of games if something comes up.
Jackbox Survey Scramble has a classic quiz show approach.
Usually, no story = no depth. However, this isn’t the case when you play Jackbox Survey Scramble. Instead, it is the simple action that makes it incredibly moreish. Furthermore, anyone can pick this up and give it a go. I loved this inclusive design as my kids felt like they were involved. Though some of the categories were beyond them, they laughed regardless.
The action revolves around 4 game modes. The developer has promised additional categories in the future. My understanding is this will be free to download, so this small title will evolve with time. Each of the modes uses the same survey-based concept. Moreover, there are popular and unpopular answers to find. Consequently, you’ll have to scratch your head and activate that grey matter.
Good old-fashioned gameplay.
The 4 modes are Hilo, Speed, Squares, and Bounce. The first 2 are practically identical. However, the Speed mode tests your pace and knowledge against every other player. This is hilarious and it caused no end of arguments. Squares was an enjoyable tactical game of noughts and crosses. Effectively you must pick your category and prevent your opponent from completing a 3 grid line. This sounds easy but every minor mistake is crucial. If you cannot pick the highest value number, you’ll lose the round and any advantage.
The split between finding the most popular and the least popular answers was slightly skewed. Most people are wired to think of the positives and thinking of something that may or may not exist was challenging. Yet, I liked the twist on the gameplay and the layers of depth that it added. Additionally, my kids were surprisingly good at thinking outside of the box, so they enjoyed this unusual element.
Jackbox Survey Scramble looks pleasant.
The developer hasn’t gone over the top aesthetically. Instead, everything is clean and vibrant, and pleasant to look at. Furthermore, the room code is always visible, so players can drop in as and when they like. The screen is easy to read and I liked the contrasting colours and the clear text.
The audio has an exciting edge that adds drama and pressure to each round. There are obnoxious sound effects and OTT announcements. Moreover, you’ll hear a ticking clock and high-energy music. Though it didn’t monopolise the experience, it worked perfectly with the core mechanics and the short rounds.
Excellent controls.
The ability to play this using mobile devices was key. Simply scanning the QR code or entering the password was a cinch. What’s more, every element was responsive. The only issue you may encounter is a poor phone signal. This could delay things so just be mindful of this minor downside.
4 game modes may seem too little. Yet, it is the variety of questions and the ever-evolving answers that keep this alive. The promise of new content and versatility make this appealing as well. As such, there is plenty of replay value and longevity if you have a good group of friends.
Jackbox Survey Scramble is great fun.
I’m a sucker for quiz games. The competitive action and easy-to-master gameplay keep me coming back for more. Additionally, I love gaming with my family and friends. Though Jackbox Survey Scramble is refined, it has plenty of depth and loads of questions. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here! Can you top every leaderboard? Guess the answers, pick your tactics, and win every game.
