Rate the Fun: Oz Fluxx

I got OZ Fluxx for Christmas. Sister and I opened it up and have played it eight times today, with two different groups of cousins. She's won three times, I've won twice and cousins won each won once. Everyone really enjoyed the game, one cousin didn't want to stop playing. Based on their reactions I thought it would be a good game to review.

OZ Fluxx is part of a family of Fluxx games published by Looney Labs. It is a card game for 2-5 players. The box says 10-40 minutes, I find the average game is 10-25 minutes. You can find more details at the game's board game geek page.

This is Looney Labs' description of the game:

Fluxx is a card game where the cards themselves determine the current rules of the game. By playing cards, you change numerous aspects of the game: how to draw cards, how to play cards, and even how to win.
At the start of the game, each player holds three cards and on a turn a player draws one card, then plays one card. By playing cards, you can put new rules into play that change numerous aspects of the game: how many cards to draw or play, how many cards you can hold in hand or keep on the table in front of you, and (most importantly) how to win the game.

Good Stuff:

• The Fluxx mechanic is a fun twist on classic card games. It has unique game play that makes it a nice change. 
• Anyone can jump into the game at any point by drawing three cards. This makes it a great filler as a games night while waiting for people to arrive or another game to finish.
• The rules are clear and if you pay attention and read what is one the card it is easy to follow; especially the second or third game.
• I really enjoyed the Oz theme. All the cards made sense with the theme and it seemed more accessible to a new game players that other Fluxx themes I have tried.  

Less Than Good Stuff:

• I've noticed new players are overwhelmed with the game the first time playing. They seem to find the very "fluxx" nature of the game disorienting.
• There are text heavy cards that can frustrating for new players and/or if you have just drawn a number of cards and trying to decided what to play while everyone is waiting.
• If the cards aren't working out for someone to win the game can drag and become less fun.

Final Thoughts:
Oz Fluxx is quirky and fun. The theme is more general than a few of the other variations. I would recommend this game for a family or game group of mixed ages. If children are playing they should be able to read or partner with an adult.

Rate the Fun Score: 7.5
You can find the list of rated games and the Rate the Fun score guide here.