Fractazmic is a rummy-style game (for 2-4 players) that reinforces adding fractions with like and unlike denominators. The goal of the game is to collect as many sets as possible where the sum is equal to 1. Three different fraction suits--sixteenths, twelfths, and tenths--keep the game interesting as you try to collect fractions that will work together. 

The game is supposed to be appropriate for children in first through eighth grades. I tend to think a child would need to be much older than first grade to understand the fraction equivalencies that must be mentally calculated. For instance, your child will have to understand that 2/4 + 3/8 + 2/16 = 1. My son in fourth grade found the game frustrating. However, my daughter who is in seventh grade had no problems. 

The cards themselves are very colorful and fun. Each fraction suit is in a different color to help younger children look for fractions that might work in their hand. There are also pictures to help your child visualize what the particular fraction looks like compared to the whole. The sixteenths set shows the fraction on one inch of a ruler, the twelfths uses an egg carton, and the tenths uses a measured water bottle. 

The directions are short and easy to understand, a big plus in my book! In the directions it states that you can find additional ways to play Fractazmic by visiting their website. However, I was unable to find any additional directions. 

The price is very reasonable, but the game lacks an excitement factor that would make me hesitate to actually purchase it. If you're hoping to reinforce fractional conversions, I wouldn't hesitate to suggest this game. If you're hoping to find a rousing game that will keep your children begging for more, I don't think this one would come to mind. Why? Mostly because each person's turn took a little while as mental calculations were made, which made the game seem to drag a bit for us.

Product review by Cindy West, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, March 2010