ThinkFun Robot Turtles

A board game where kids write code with cards to reach the jewel.

Best for kids who want to learn coding through a family board game.

At a glance

Age guidance

Ages 4+

Price

Under $25

Screen needed

No, fully screen-free

Batteries

Not needed

Adult help

Plan to help

Play style

Together (2+ players)

What it is

Game board, turtle pieces, jewels, walls and code cards

Great for

Holiday, Birthday, Stocking Stuffer, Rainy Day

Kids play forward, left and right cards to steer their turtle across the board to a jewel, while a grown-up moves the turtle exactly as instructed. New rules unlock walls, lasers and function cards, so the game gets harder as kids master the basics.

Why we picked it

1. 01Plays with 2-5 players, so it works as a family game night pick
2. 02A Bug card lets kids undo a move, introducing debugging
3. 03Levels add obstacles and functions as players improve

What they’ll learn

Always follow the manufacturer’s age and safety guidance. Small parts may be a choking hazard for children under 3.