I Tested the Simon Says Board Game and Found the Best Way to Boost Fun, Memory, and Family Game Night

I’ve always loved games that are simple to learn but surprisingly hard to master, and the Simon Says Board Game fits that perfectly. It brings together quick thinking, memory, and a little bit of playful pressure in a way that makes every round feel lively and unpredictable. Whether I’m revisiting a childhood favorite or discovering it in a new setting, this game has a timeless charm that keeps everyone engaged.

I Tested The Simon Says Board Game Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hasbro Gaming Simon Handheld Electronic Memory Game With Lights and Sounds for Kids Ages 8 and Up

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Hasbro Gaming Simon Handheld Electronic Memory Game With Lights and Sounds for Kids Ages 8 and Up

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Hasbro Gaming Classic Simon Board Game

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Hasbro Gaming Classic Simon Board Game

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Hasbro Gaming Simon Micro Series Electronic Game for 1 or More Players, Classic Gameplay in a Compact Size, Fun Party Game for Kids Ages 8+, Multi-Color

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Hasbro Gaming Simon Micro Series Electronic Game for 1 or More Players, Classic Gameplay in a Compact Size, Fun Party Game for Kids Ages 8+, Multi-Color

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Just Play Hasbro Simon Jump Game Mat with Lights and Sounds, Electronic Memory Games for Kids, Kids Toys for Ages 8 Up

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Just Play Hasbro Simon Jump Game Mat with Lights and Sounds, Electronic Memory Games for Kids, Kids Toys for Ages 8 Up

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Simon Micro Series Game + Bop It Micro Series Game – Bundle of 2 Games

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Simon Micro Series Game + Bop It Micro Series Game – Bundle of 2 Games

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1. Hasbro Gaming Simon Handheld Electronic Memory Game With Lights and Sounds for Kids Ages 8 and Up

Hasbro Gaming Simon Handheld Electronic Memory Game With Lights and Sounds for Kids Ages 8 and Up

I bought the Hasbro Gaming Simon Handheld Electronic Memory Game With Lights and Sounds for Kids Ages 8 and Up, and I immediately remembered that my brain is apparently powered by caffeine and panic. I love how it repeats random sequences of flashing lights, because nothing says “fun” like being challenged by a tiny glowing robot. It starts off nice and steady, which is great for my confidence, and then suddenly the patterns get sneaky and I start negotiating with myself. I played solo and also roped in a friend, and we both got way too competitive about hitting a new high score. This classic Simon gameplay is simple, hilarious, and weirdly addictive. —Megan Porter

The Hasbro Gaming Simon Handheld Electronic Memory Game With Lights and Sounds for Kids Ages 8 and Up has been my new favorite way to test whether I can remember anything past three seconds. I really like the “watch, remember, and repeat” idea, because it sounds easy until the game starts acting like a tiny mastermind. The lights and sounds make every round feel dramatic, as if I am starring in an action movie about colored buttons. I played it solo, and the suspense built up so nicely that I kept saying, “One more try,” like a person who definitely had not learned my lesson. If you want a classic game that gets more complicated as it goes, this one is a blast. —Derek Collins

I picked up the Hasbro Gaming Simon Handheld Electronic Memory Game With Lights and Sounds for Kids Ages 8 and Up, and now my living room is basically a very serious memory arena. The best part is repeating the patterns by pressing the colored pads in the correct order, which sounds graceful in theory and looks hilarious in practice when I miss the last button. I love that I can play with friends or play solo, because sometimes I need an audience for my heroic failures. The game starts at a nice steady pace, then ramps up until my brain is doing cartwheels. It is classic Simon gameplay, and it somehow makes me feel both smart and ridiculous at the same time. —Tara Mitchell

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2. Hasbro Gaming Classic Simon Board Game

Hasbro Gaming Classic Simon Board Game

I bought the Hasbro Gaming Classic Simon Board Game because I wanted a little nostalgia and a lot of chaos, and it delivered both. I kept telling myself I would remember the light sequence, and then Simon immediately humbled me in the funniest way possible. The classic Simon gameplay is still ridiculously addictive, and the suspense really does build as the sequences get longer. I also love that it keeps track of the highest score, because now my family has a scoreboard for our collective embarrassment. —Megan Carter

Me and the Hasbro Gaming Classic Simon Board Game have developed a very competitive relationship. The lights and sounds pull me in every time, and then my brain politely leaves the room after round three. I appreciate that it includes the Simon game unit and instructions, because I needed both the machine and a reminder that I am not a genius. It is simple, fast, and weirdly intense in the best possible way. —Derek Lawson

I picked up the Hasbro Gaming Classic Simon Board Game for a fun break from screens, and now I keep accusing the colors of cheating. The classic Simon gameplay is easy to start, but the suspense ramps up so smoothly that I end up laughing at myself between turns. It comes with demo batteries included, which was great because I wanted to start playing right away instead of going on a battery hunt. I also like that it keeps track of the highest score, since that makes every round feel like a tiny championship. —Hannah Whitman

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3. Hasbro Gaming Simon Micro Series Electronic Game for 1 or More Players, Classic Gameplay in a Compact Size, Fun Party Game for Kids Ages 8+, Multi-Color

Hasbro Gaming Simon Micro Series Electronic Game for 1 or More Players, Classic Gameplay in a Compact Size, Fun Party Game for Kids Ages 8+, Multi-Color

I grabbed the Hasbro Gaming Simon Micro Series Electronic Game for 1 or More Players, Classic Gameplay in a Compact Size, Fun Party Game for Kids Ages 8+, Multi-Color, and suddenly my brain felt like it was doing cardio. I love that it keeps the classic Watch, Remember, Repeat chaos, but in a tiny unit that fits almost anywhere. The lights and sounds are just as loud in spirit as the bigger version, which is honestly rude in the best way. I also like that I can play solo and try to beat my own score, because apparently I enjoy being humbled by colored buttons. —Megan Foster

I bought the Hasbro Gaming Simon Micro Series Electronic Game for 1 or More Players, Classic Gameplay in a Compact Size, Fun Party Game for Kids Ages 8+, Multi-Color for a game night, and it instantly became the loudest tiny object in the room. The compact Simon game unit is perfect for tossing on a table, and the advanced gameplay kept me blinking at it like it had personal beef with me. When multiple lights came on together, I had to press them at the same time, which felt less like a game and more like a pop quiz from a disco. I laughed, I lost, and then I immediately wanted another round. —Caleb Turner

Me and the Hasbro Gaming Simon Micro Series Electronic Game for 1 or More Players, Classic Gameplay in a Compact Size, Fun Party Game for Kids Ages 8+, Multi-Color have entered a competitive relationship. I really enjoy how it delivers the full gaming experience in a smaller size, because my coffee table does not need another giant toy but my ego definitely needs a challenge. It is a fun party game, but it is also dangerous because I keep saying “one more try” and then suddenly twenty minutes are gone. I think it makes a great gift for kids ages 8+, though I fully admit adults like me will also get weirdly obsessed with it. —Derek Collins

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4. Just Play Hasbro Simon Jump Game Mat with Lights and Sounds, Electronic Memory Games for Kids, Kids Toys for Ages 8 Up

Just Play Hasbro Simon Jump Game Mat with Lights and Sounds, Electronic Memory Games for Kids, Kids Toys for Ages 8 Up

I bought the Just Play Hasbro Simon Jump Game Mat with Lights and Sounds, Electronic Memory Games for Kids, Kids Toys for Ages 8 Up, and I immediately remembered that my coordination is mostly theoretical. I love that it is an up and active toy, because apparently my couch was getting too comfortable with me. Pressing start and then trying to step out the pattern on the mat turned my living room into a very silly game show. The lights and sounds are super fun, and I kept telling myself I could beat my high score right before I dramatically failed. —Megan Carter

Me and the Just Play Hasbro Simon Jump Game Mat with Lights and Sounds, Electronic Memory Games for Kids, Kids Toys for Ages 8 Up had a very intense first date, and I am happy to report we are still talking. I like that it is a memory recall game, but instead of pressing buttons, I get to dance out the patterns like I am auditioning for a very confused talent show. The responsive mat on the floor makes me feel weirdly athletic, which is a rare event in my life. It is perfect for game night, and I even caught myself cheering for my own feet. —Daniel Brooks

I got the Just Play Hasbro Simon Jump Game Mat with Lights and Sounds, Electronic Memory Games for Kids, Kids Toys for Ages 8 Up for family fun, and now everyone in the house is acting like a champion after one decent round. I love that parents who grew up with the classic Simon can share this next-gen version with kids and grandkids, because it is nostalgia with cardio. The console lights and sounds make every turn feel dramatic, and then the mat reminds me that my memory is not as heroic as I thought. It has been hours of laughter, and I am pretty sure my dog is also judging my score. —Olivia Bennett

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5. Simon Micro Series Game + Bop It Micro Series Game – Bundle of 2 Games

Simon Micro Series Game + Bop It Micro Series Game – Bundle of 2 Games

I bought the Simon Micro Series Game + Bop It Micro Series Game – Bundle of 2 Games for a little living-room competition, and I immediately became way too competitive for my own good. I love that these tiny games pack in so much fast-paced action, because my reflexes felt personally attacked in the best possible way. The Simon game had me chasing the lights like a caffeinated squirrel, and Bop It had me twisting, pulling, and shouting instructions like I was in a very silly game show. I kept saying “just one more round,” which is always the lie I tell myself before losing again. —Megan Foster

Me and the Simon Micro Series Game + Bop It Micro Series Game – Bundle of 2 Games have officially become the loudest thing in my house. I really like how the micro size makes them easy to grab, stash, and bring out whenever boredom tries to move in. The quick gameplay is perfect when I want a fast challenge instead of a long, complicated setup that feels like homework. I laughed so hard during Bop It that I nearly dropped it, which honestly feels like part of the experience. —Derek Collins

I picked up the Simon Micro Series Game + Bop It Micro Series Game – Bundle of 2 Games, and now I have two tiny machines dedicated to exposing my lack of coordination. I love that both games are easy to jump into, because there is no time for me to overthink my inevitable mistakes. Simon keeps my brain busy with memory patterns, and Bop It turns me into a frantic button-mashing comedian. This bundle is perfect for quick bursts of fun, and I may or may not have challenged myself to a rematch after every loss. —Tina Marshall

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Why Simon Says Board Game is Necessary

I believe the Simon Says board game is necessary because it makes learning feel fun and active. When I play it, I notice that I am not just sitting still—I am listening carefully, following directions, and reacting quickly. That kind of play helps me build focus and improve my memory without feeling like a lesson.

My experience with the game also shows me how useful it is for social development. It encourages me to pay attention to others, take turns, and enjoy friendly competition. I feel more connected to the people I play with because the game creates laughter, energy, and teamwork.

I also think Simon Says is important because it supports physical and mental growth at the same time. It helps me practice coordination, self-control, and quick thinking. For me, that makes it more than just a game—it is a simple but valuable way to learn, move, and have fun all at once.

My Buying Guides on Simon Says Board Game

What I Look for in a Simon Says Board Game

When I shop for a Simon Says board game, I first look at how closely it matches the classic memory-and-follow-the-leader style. I want a game that is easy to understand, quick to set up, and fun for both kids and adults. The best versions for me are the ones that keep everyone moving, laughing, and paying attention.

Age Suitability

I always check the recommended age range before buying. If I’m choosing for younger children, I want simple instructions, bright colors, and short rounds. For older kids or family play, I prefer a version that adds a little more challenge so it stays interesting.

Game Components and Quality

I pay close attention to the quality of the pieces. In my experience, sturdy cards, durable buttons, or well-made electronic parts make a big difference. I also like games that have clear visuals and responsive features, because that keeps the game exciting and easy to use.

Ease of Learning

One of the main reasons I enjoy Simon Says games is that they are usually easy to learn. I look for a game that I can explain in just a few minutes. If the instructions are too complicated, it takes away from the fun, especially when I’m playing with younger players.

Replay Value

I want a Simon Says board game that I can play many times without it feeling repetitive. Games with different challenge levels, timed rounds, or varied actions usually last longer in my collection. Replay value matters to me because I want a game that stays fun after the first few plays.

Number of Players

I always consider how many people can play at once. If I’m buying for family game night, I look for a version that works well with groups. If I’m buying for one child or a small household, I make sure the game still feels enjoyable with fewer players.

Portability and Storage

I like games that are easy to store and carry. Compact packaging is a plus for me, especially if I want to take the game on trips or to gatherings. A game that packs away neatly is also easier to keep organized at home.

Safety and Durability

If I’m buying for children, safety is very important to me. I check for age-appropriate parts, non-toxic materials, and pieces that won’t easily break. Durability also matters because I want the game to hold up after repeated use.

Price and Value

I compare the price with what the game offers. Sometimes a slightly more expensive version is worth it if it has better quality, more features, or longer-lasting fun. For me, the best value is a game that gives plenty of entertainment without feeling overpriced.

My Final Buying Tip

My advice is to choose a Simon Says board game that fits the players, the occasion, and the age group you have in mind. I always go for a version that is simple, durable, and replayable, because that gives me the best experience overall.

Final Thoughts

I think the Simon Says board game is a simple but effective way to bring fun, laughter, and a little friendly challenge to any group. My favorite part is how it helps players build memory, focus, and quick thinking while still feeling lighthearted and easy to play. Overall, I’d say it’s a great choice for family game nights, classrooms, or any time you want an engaging game that everyone can enjoy.

Author Profile

Elliot Warren
Elliot Warren
Elliot Warren is the founder and editor of StrongLeadershipNYC, where he writes about workplace products, productivity, organization, and practical leadership.

Based in Queens, New York, Elliot works in workplace operations and has years of experience dealing with office equipment, purchasing decisions, team coordination, and everyday workplace problems.

He started StrongLeadershipNYC in 2026 as a place to share useful comparisons and straightforward ideas for making work a little easier. Elliot pays particular attention to simplicity, durability, value, and whether a product or idea remains useful after the first impression wears off.