RELATIONSHIP BOARD GAME FOR USE BY COUPLES

A board game comprises at least a first and a second playing piece. The board game further comprises a game board. The game board comprises at least one track along which the first and second playing pieces are movable. The track comprises a plurality of track areas. The board game further comprises a plurality of card members. The card members comprise at least one of game information relating to a past relationship offense, game information relating to family law, game information related to a relationship asset, and an indicia of a relationship asset. The board game further comprises at least a first movement control piece configured to display an indicia in response to a manipulation of the first movement control piece.

Skip to: Description  ·  Claims  · Patent History  ·  Patent History
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from co-pending U.S. provisional application No. 61/146,369, filed on Jan. 22, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The specification relates to board games. Specifically, the specification relates to board games which may be playable by a player against his/her spouse or spousal equivalent, with the aim of collecting game pieces representing relationship assets after a deterioration in the relationship between the couple.

INTRODUCTION

Board games are games that are played by moving pieces on a board. Many types of board games are known, including abstract strategy games such as Chess, race games such as Backgammon, roll-and-move games such as Monopoly, trivia games such as Trivial Pursuit, word games such as Scrabble, and war games such as Risk.

SUMMARY

The following summary is provided to introduce the reader to the more detailed discussion to follow. The summary is not intended to limit or define the claims.

The game, which may be played as a board game or simulated as an electronic game (e.g a video game) is based on the theme of the relation between couples and, more particularly, the possible breakdown of a relationship and the ensuing consequences. Accordingly, the game is preferably played by an even number of people, wherein each pair comprises a couple, or each pair of people simulates a couple. During the game, the relationship between the couple may deteriorate due to offences committed by one of both members of the couple. Any assets owned by the couple may then have to be divided up, such as during a separation or divorce. As such, the game may simulate the relationship between a couple (e.g., a man and a woman, two men or two women), such as a marriage or a cohabitation and, more preferably, the deterioration and eventual breakup of the relationship. In some examples, the game may comprise a “real life” aspect, and a “fantasy” aspect. For example, the game may require a player to provide “real life” information about their spouse or their relationship, may require a player to carry out a task in “real life”, or may encourage players to discuss “real-life” relationship offenses and tasks that occur in their relationship. In addition, the game may have “real life” consequences. For example, a loser of the game may be required to carry out task, and preferably a favor for their spouse, in “real life”. Further, the game may allow a player to fantasize about their relationship, and more particularly about their relationship assets.

In accordance with a first broad aspect, a board game that relates to relationships and a method of playing the board game are disclosed. Specifically, the board game relates to relationships between spouses or spousal equivalents, and is playable by a player against his/her spouse or spouse equivalent. The game may involve accusing a spouse or spouse equivalent of a relationship offense, requiring a spouse or spousal equivalent to carry out a task as a consequence of the offense, and divorcing or separating from a spouse and obtaining and/or dividing the relationship assets. The winner of the game may be spouse who obtains the most relationship assets in the game.

In accordance with this first broad aspect, a method of playing a board game is provided. The method comprises manipulating at least one movement control piece, the movement control piece configured to display an indicia in response to manipulation; moving one of a first playing piece and a second playing piece along a track of a gameboard to one of a plurality of track areas on the track as directed by the movement control piece; obtaining a card member associated with the one of the plurality of track areas, the card member comprising at least one of game information relating to a past relationship offense, game information relating to family law, game information related to a relationship asset, and an indicia of a relationship asset; taking an action based on the game information displayed on the card member; and repeating the preceding steps until at least one of the first player and the second player has obtained a pre-determined combination of card.

In accordance with the first broad aspect, a board game is provided. The board game comprises at least a first and a second playing piece. The board game further comprises a game board. The game board comprises at least one track along which the first and second playing pieces are movable. The track comprises a plurality of track areas. The board game further comprises a plurality of card members. The card members comprise at least one of game information relating to a past relationship offense, game information relating to family law, game information related to a relationship asset, and an indicia of a relationship asset. The board game further comprises at least a first movement control piece configured to display an indicia in response to a manipulation of the first movement control piece.

In another broad aspect, a board game which comprises game board having first and second tracks, and a method of playing the board game in first and second phases is disclosed. The board game involves moving along the first track and obtaining card members until a pre-determined combination of card members is obtained, and then moving to the second track. In some examples, the first phase of play may represent a “real life” portion of the game, and the second phase of play may represent a “fantasy” portion of the game.

In accordance with this broad aspect, a method of playing a board game is provided. The method comprises (a) manipulating at least one movement control piece to display an indicia directing movement of one of a first playing piece and a second playing piece; (b) moving the one of a first playing piece and the second playing piece along a first track on a game board to one of a plurality first track areas as directed by the random indicia, wherein at least some of the first track areas are each associated with one of a plurality of categories; (c) obtaining a first track card member based on the category with which the one of the plurality of first track areas is associated; repeating steps (a) to (c) until one or both of the first player and the second player has obtained a pre-determined combination of card members; (d) moving one or both of the first game piece and the second game piece to a second track; (e) manipulating the at least one movement control piece to display another indicia; (f) moving one of the first playing piece and the second playing piece along a second track on the game board to one of a plurality of second track areas as directed by the random indicia; (g) obtaining a second track card member associated with the one of the second track areas; and (h) repeating steps (f) to (h) until one of the first player and the second player has obtained a predetermined combination of second track card members.

In accordance with the second broad aspect, a board game is provided. The board game comprises at least a first and a second playing piece. The board game further comprises a game board. The game board comprises a first track along which the first and second playing pieces are movable in a first phase of the game. The first track comprises a plurality of first track areas. At least some of the first track areas are associated with one of a plurality of categories. The game board further comprises a second track along which the first and second playing pieces are movable in a second phase of the game. The second track comprises a plurality of second track areas. The board game further comprises a plurality of first track card members. Each first track card member is associated with one of the plurality of categories and comprises game information. The board game further comprises a plurality of second track card members. Each second track card member is associated with one of the second track areas. The board game further comprises at least one movement control piece configured to display an indicia directing movement of the playing pieces along the tracks in response to manipulation of the movement control piece.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective illustration of an example of first and second game pieces;

FIG. 1B is a perspective illustration of first and second movement control pieces;

FIG. 1C is a perspective illustration of a plurality of card members arranged in a plurality of decks;

FIG. 1D is a top plan view of a card member;

FIG. 1E is a top plan view of a game board;

FIG. 1F is a bottom plan view of the card member; and

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an alternate example of a game board.

 DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EXAMPLES

Various apparatuses or methods will be described below to provide an example of each claimed invention. No example described below limits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may cover processes or apparatuses that are not described below. The claimed inventions are not limited to apparatuses or processes having all of the features of any one apparatus or process described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses described below. It is possible that an apparatus or process described below is not an embodiment of any claimed invention.

An example of a board game is shown in FIGS. 1A to 1F. The game involves moving around one or more tracks, landing on track areas on the track, collecting cards, and optionally taking action based on the cards, with the goal of collecting card members representing relationship assets. Relationship assets may include any assets that are typically considered as assets that can be divided in a divorce settlement, such as real estate, vehicles, household items, jewelry, and investments, as well as other items which may be settled in a divorce, such as child custody, or alimony.

In the example shown, the game is configured to be played in pairs, with the members of each pair playing against each other. Preferably, the members of each pair are spouses, or spousal equivalents, such as common law spouses, a girlfriend and a boyfriend, or a same-sex couple. However, it will be appreciated that the game may be played by anyone. The game may be played by only one pair, for example by a wife against a husband. Alternately, the game may be played by two or more pairs. For example, up to four husband and wife pairs of player may play the game, with each wife playing against their respective husband.

Accordingly, a goal of the exemplified game is to defeat one's spouse by divorcing or separating from the spouse and gaining possession of the relationship assets (i.e. the card members which represent the relationship assets). A secondary goal of the exemplified game is to allow a couple to discuss, and preferably laugh about, their “real life” traits and habits, and to allow a couple to fantasize about their relationship assets.

In the example shown, the board game comprises first 102 and second 104 playing pieces, first 106 and second 108 movement control pieces, and a plurality of card members 110, and a game board 112,

Referring to FIG. 1A, the first 102 and second 104 playing pieces are pieces that are each assigned to a player of the game. The example shown represents the pieces required for two people two play the board game, each with their own playing piece. However, as noted above, the game may be played with more than two players. In such examples, more than two playing pieces may be provided.

The playing pieces 102, 104 may be small tokens that are moved around the game board 112. In the example shown, the playing pieces 102, 104 are plastic three-dimensional members. However, in alternate examples, the playing pieces 102, 104 may be made from another material, and may be two dimensional. Further, in alternate examples, the playing pieces 102, 104 may be electronic or comprise electronic components.

In the example shown, the playing pieces 102, 104 each comprise a gender indicia 114 indicating whether the playing piece is to be assigned to a female player or a male player. As shown, playing piece 102 comprises a female symbol and playing piece 106 comprises a male symbol. In alternate examples, the shape of the playing piece may comprise the indicia 114. For example, piece 102 may be a bride figurine, and piece 104 may be a groom figurine. Alternately, the color of the playing piece may comprise the indicia 114. For example, piece 102 may be pink, and piece 104 may be blue.

In examples wherein more than two playing pieces are provided, the playing pieces may each comprise an indicia for distinguishing which playing piece is assigned to which player. For example, if four playing pieces are provided, two of the playing pieces may be bride figurines, and each bride figurine may have a different color accessory on the dress thereof. Further, two of the playing pieces may be groom figurines, and each groom figurine may have a different color accessory on the tuxedo thereof.

Referring to FIG. 1B, the movement control piece(s) may be any piece that is configured to display an indicia in response to manipulation. In the example shown, the first 106 and second 108 movement control pieces comprise dice, as is known in the art. It will be appreciated that one die, or more than one die may be used. In alternate examples, the movement control piece may comprise a dial for spinning, an electronic display, or another piece.

Referring to FIG. 1C, a plurality of card members 110 are shown. In the example shown, the card members are laminated paper cards, which are arranged in decks of cards 116a-116f, as is known in the art. Alternately, the card members 110 may be plastic tokens, figurines, or electronic card members.

In the example shown, the card members 110 are either first track card members (also referred to herein as first track cards) 118 or second track card members 120 (also referred to herein as second track cards). That is, as will be described hereinbelow, the gameboard shown comprises a first track 122 along which the first 102 and second 104 game pieces are movable in a first phase of the game, and a second track 124 along which the first 102 and second 104 playing pieces are movable in a second phase of the game. The exemplified first track card members 118 are associated with the first track 122 and may be collected during the first phase of the game, and the exemplified second track card members 120 are associated with the second track 124 and may be collected during the second phase of the game.

In the example shown, each of the first track card members 118 is associated with one of a plurality of categories. The first track card members in deck 116a and 116b are associated with a first category, the first track card members in deck 116c and 116d are associated with a second category, and the first track card members in deck 116e are associated with a third category. The first track card members 118 preferably each comprise a category indicia 126 indicating which category each first track card member 118 is associated with. For example, as shown in FIG. 1D, each first track card member 118 comprises a first face 128 and an opposed second face 130, and the first face is printed with text or a drawing related to the category. In the example shown, the category indicia 126 includes text stating either “Category 1”, “Category 2”, or Category 3”. In some examples, each category may be given a name. Preferably, the name is associated with marriage and relationships. For example, category 1 may be called “Oops”, category 2 may be called “Busted”, and category 3 may be called “Splitsville”. Although these names are used throughout the application to refer to the first, second, and third category of cards, respectively, it will be appreciated that alternate names may be used, or no names may be used.

As can be seen in FIG. 1C, in the example shown, the first track cards 118 of category 1 and category 2 are further sub-divided into a first sub-category and a second sub-category. The first track cards 118 of the first sub-category comprise a sub-category indicia 136 indicating that these first track cards 118 are to be picked up by a female player. For example, the subcategory indicia 136 may comprise a female symbol or an image of a female printed on the first face 128 of the first track cards 118 of the first sub-category, or may comprise a color (e.g. pink provided on the cards). The first track cards 118 of the second sub-category comprise a sub-category indicia 136 indicating that these cards are to be picked up by a male player. For example, the subcategory indicia 136 may comprise a male symbol or an image of a male printed on the first face 128 of the first track cards 118 of the first sub-category, or may comprise a color (e.g. blue) provided on the first track cards 118.

The first track card members 118 further comprise game information 138. As shown in FIG. 1F, the second face 130 of the first track card members 118 may be printed with the game information 138. For example, depending on the category with which a particular first track card member 118 is associated, the game information 138 may comprise information relating to a past relationship offense, instructions for a player to carry out a task for a second player, instructions to manipulate another card member, instructions to manipulate the card member, information relating to family law, information relating to a personal situation, instructions to carry out a task related to other game information on the card member, information relating to relationship assets, and miscellaneous game information. Preferably, the game information comprises at least one of information relating to a past relationship offense, information relating to family law, and information relating to a relationship asset.

Each first track card member 118 may comprise different game information 138 from all other first track card members 118, or multiple copies of a given first track card member 118 may be provided.

In the exemplified game, the game information 138 on at least some of the first track cards 118 associated with the first category (also referred to as the “Oops” category) comprises information relating to a past minor relationship offense, and instructions to carry out a task for a second player. For example, the task may be a consequence of the offense.

More particularly, in the exemplified game, the game information 138 on at least some of the first track cards associated with the “Oops” category (also referred to as “Oops” cards) comprises text stating that a player is accused of a minor relationship offense, and that the consequence of this offense is that the player must carry out a task. Preferably, the task is a favor for the player's spouse or spouse equivalent. The minor offenses and tasks may differ depending on whether the first track card is associated with the first sub-category (e.g. the female sub-category) or the second sub-category (e.g. the male sub-category). For example, the minor offenses of the female sub-category of the “Oops” cards may include offenses that are common to or are often associated with women, and the minor offenses on the male sub-category of “Oops” cards may include offenses that are common to men or are often associated with men. Further, the tasks of the female sub-category of “Oops” cards may include tasks that are not typically associated with females, or that a male may typically want a female to do, and the tasks on the male sub-category of “Oops” cards may include tasks that are not typically associated with males, or that a female may typically want a male to do.

In some particular examples, the game information 138 of the male sub-category of the “Oops” cards may include any of the following phrases, parts of the following phrases, or variations of the following phrases:

    • 1. You've been accused of “leaving toothpaste in the bathroom sink” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “clean the bathroom(s)”.
    • 2. You've been accused of “excessive golfing” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the grocery shopping this week”.
    • 3. You've been accused of “not replacing the toilet paper” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 4. You've been accused of “leaving your dirty clothes on the floor” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “clean the bedroom (s)”.
    • 5. You've been accused of “hogging the remote control” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “relinquish control of the remote all week”.
    • 6. You've been accused of “leaving dirty dishes in the sink” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the dishes (completely) all week”.
    • 7. You've been accused of “leaving dirty dishes around the house” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the dishes (completely) all week”.
    • 8. You've been accused of “wasting a whole day watching sports on TV” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “make your spouse a romantic dinner”.
    • 9. You've been accused of “yelling at the TV while watching sports” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the grocery shopping this week”.
    • 10. You've been accused of “passing gas” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “pay for and go to a chick flick”.
    • 11. You've been accused of “passing gas under the blankets” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “buy your spouse flowers”.
    • 12. You've been accused of “peeing in the shower” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “clean the bathroom(s).
    • 13. You've been accused of “blowing your nose in the shower” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “clean the bathroom(s)”.
    • 14. You've been accused of “not taking out the garbage/recycle bin” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 15. You've been accused of “peeing on the toilet seat” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “clean the bathroom(s).
    • 16. You've been accused of “taking money from your spouse's purse” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a romantic dinner”.
    • 17. You've been accused of “acting immature when you're with your buddies” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 18. You've been accused of “drinking out of the milk/juice carton” and for this you must pay the price. The consequence for this offense will be to “vacuum/sweep the house/apartment”.
    • 19. You've been accused of “hogging the blankets” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “draw your spouse a bath with candles”
    • 20. You've been accused of “refusing to use a map when you're lost” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for offense this will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 21. You've been accused of “using bad/cheap cologne” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for offense this will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 22. You've been accused of “never giving your spouse compliments” and for this you must pay the price. The consequence for this offense will be to “open all doors for your spouse this week (including car doors)”.
    • 23. You've been accused of “leaving beard shavings and shaving cream in the bathroom sink” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “clean the bathroom(s).
    • 24. You've been accused of “dressing poorly/cheesy” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “let your spouse throw out some of your old clothes”.
    • 25. You've been accused of “having smelly feet” and for this you must pay the price. The consequence for this offense will be to “vacuum/sweep the house/apartment”.
    • 26. You've been accused of “wearing socks with your sandals” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “make your spouse a romantic dinner”.
    • 27. You've been accused of “having skid marks on your underwear” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the laundry (completely) this week”.
    • 28. You've been accused of “wearing old, raggedy underwear” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash and clean your spouse's car”.
    • 29. You've been accused of “hogging the bed” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “give your spouse a foot massage”
    • 30. You've been accused of “being a messy eater” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “pay for and go to a chick flick”.
    • 31. You've been accused of “eating loudly with your mouth open” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “pay for and go to a chick flick”.
    • 32. You've been accused of “always being on the computer” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “talk with your spouse for ½ hour this week”.
    • 33. You've been accused of “watching stupid/violent TV shows” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “watch your spouse's favourite TV show/Soap Opera”.
    • 34. You've been accused of “leaving toenail clippings on the floor” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “vacuum/sweep the house/apartment”.
    • 35. You've been accused of “leaving the toilet seat up” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 36. You've been accused of “leaving stains under the toilet seat” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and her friends for 1 night”.
    • 37. You've been accused of “being an obnoxious drunk” and for this you must pay the price. The consequence for this offense will be to “be a designated driver for your spouse and her friends for 1 night”.
    • 38 You've been accused of “having a bad haircut/hairstyle” and for this you must pay the price. The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse. for 1 night”.
    • 39. You've been accused of “excessive snoring” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “make your spouse a romantic dinner”.
    • 40. You've been accused of “always forgetting where you put things” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the laundry (completely) this week”.
    • 41. You've been accused of “letting food go bad in the fridge” and for this you must pay the price! Your task/punishment for this offense will be to “thoroughly clean the appliances”.
    • 42. You've been accused of “never getting up with the baby in the middle of the night” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for offense this will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 43. You've been accused of “buying useless gifts for special occasions” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a concert/play of her choice”.
    • 44. You've been accused of “never unloading the dishwasher” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “make your spouse a romantic dinner”.
    • 45. You've been accused of “never folding clean clothes” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the laundry (completely) this week”.
    • 46. You've been accused of “admitting a sexual dream about one of your spouse's hot friends” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “make your spouse a romantic dinner”.
    • 47. You've been accused of “never finishing little projects” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “draw your spouse a bath with candles”.
    • 48. You've been accused of “leaving garbage in your spouse's car” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash and clean your spouse's car”.
    • 49. You've been accused of “leaving your spouse's car on empty” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “fill your spouse's car with gas”.
    • 50. You've been accused of “never giving your spouse “little surprises” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “make your spouse a romantic dinner”.
    • 51. You've been accused of “asking your spouse if she's ever thought about breast implants” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “give your spouse a massage”.
    • 52. You've been accused of “never answering your phone when your spouse needs to talk to you” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “watch your spouse's favourite TV show/Soap Opera”.
    • 53. You've been accused of “not cleaning the dishes properly and leaving stains” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 54. You've been accused of “being proud of your gaseous emissions” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash the bed sheets”.
    • 55. You've been accused of “honking the horn at your spouse when you are getting ready to go out”. The consequence for this offense will be to “do the laundry (completely) this week”.
    • 56. You've been accused of “telling your spouse her friend is hot” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 57. You've been accused of “being an aggressive driver” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “let your spouse drive everywhere for 1 week”.
    • 58. You've been accused of “periodic erectile dysfunction” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “give your spouse a massage”.
    • 59. You've been accused of “eating with your fingers” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the dishes (completely) all week”.
    • 60. You've been accused of “forgetting to make reservations when going out to dinner” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “make your spouse a romantic dinner”.
    • 61. You've been accused of “trying to have all of the answers when your spouse just wants you to listen” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 62. You've been accused of “picking bad movies” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to” “pay for and go to a chick flick”.
    • 63. You've been accused of “forgetting to pick up groceries on your way home from work” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the grocery shopping this week”.
    • 64. You've been accused of “leaving toxic fumes in the bathroom and not turning on the fan” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a romantic dinner”.
    • 65. You've been accused of “cuddling only when you want sex” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “open all doors for your spouse this week (including car doors)”.
    • 66. You've been accused of “never showing affection in public” and for this you must pay the price”. The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a romantic dinner”.
    • 67. You've been accused of “asking your spouse to learn an ex's recipe” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “be a designated driver for your spouse and her friends for 1 night”.
    • 68. You've been accused of “not changing the light bulbs when needed” and for this you must pay the price“! The consequence for this offense will be to “do the dishes (completely) all week”.
    • 69. You've been accused of “always falling for “get rich quick” schemes” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a romantic dinner”.
    • 70. You've been accused of “bragging about your past sexual conquests” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 71. You've been accused of “leaving everything until the last minute” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “pay for and go to a chick flick.”
    • 72. You've been accused of “excessive channel surfing” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “relinquish control of the remote all week”.
    • 73. You've been accused of “walking right by things you know need to be picked up” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a romantic dinner”.
    • 74. You've been accused of “always taking credit for the positive attributes of the children” and for this you must pay the price. The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and her friends for 1 night”.
    • 75. You've been accused of “attributing the negative behaviours of the children on your spouse” and for this you must pay the price. The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.

In some particular examples, the game information of the female sub-category of “Oops” cards may include any of the following phrases, parts of the following phrases, or variations of the following phrases:

    • 1. You've been accused of “asking your spouse “if you weren't with me, which one of my friends would you be with?” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 2. You've been accused of “hogging the bed” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 3. You've been accused of “hogging the blankets” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “give your spouse a massage”.
    • 4. You've been accused of “always being on a diet” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this will be to “take your spouse out to dinner”.
    • 5. You've been accused of “having too many shoes” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “buy your spouse a case of beer/liquor”.
    • 6. You've been accused of “having too many purses” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “buy your spouse a case of beer/liquor”.
    • 7. You've been accused of “never being able to find anything in your purse” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “watch a sporting event on TV with your spouse”.
    • 8. You've been accused of “watching too many TV talk shows” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 9. You've been accused of “being moody during your period” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse breakfast in bed”.
    • 10. You've been accused of “too many girls night out” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 11. You've been accused of “excessive talking on the phone” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a live sporting event of his choice”.
    • 12. You've been accused of “clogging up the bathroom with make up” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 13. You've been accused of “leaving garbage in your spouse's car” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash and clean your spouse's car”.
    • 14. You've been accused of “leaving the car on empty” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this will be to “fill your spouse's car with gas”.
    • 15. You've been accused of “taking too long in the bathroom” and for this offense you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “pay for and go to a guy's flick”.
    • 16. You've been accused of “asking for, but not following your spouse's opinion” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse”.
    • 17. You've been accused of “asking questions you already know the answer to” and for this you must pay the price”. The consequence for this offense will be to “take out the garbage/recycle for the week”.
    • 18. You've been accused of “nit picking over stupid things” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 19. You've been accused of “taking money from your spouse's wallet” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “buy your spouse a case of beer/liquor”.
    • 20. You've been accused of “crying over stupid things” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “pay for and go to a guys flick”.
    • 21. You've been accused of “ordering an expensive meal and then eating hardly anything” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse out to dinner”.
    • 22. You've been accused of “being insecure about your body” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take out the garbage/recycle for the week”.
    • 23. You've been accused of “being a clean freak” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “be a designated driver for your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 24. You've been accused of “asking a question and then getting mad at the answer” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “be a designated driver for your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 25. You've been accused of “taking up all of the closet space” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “change the oil in your spouse's car”.
    • 26. You've been accused of “making your spouse buy feminine hygiene stuff for you” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a live sporting event of his choice”.
    • 27. You've been accused of “taking too long to get ready” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse to a live sporting event of his choice”.
    • 28. You've been accused of “scheduling sex” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 29. You've been accused of “being naïve about sports” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “watch a sporting event on TV with your spouse”.
    • 30. You've been accused of “nagging your spouse when he's watching sports” and for this you must pay the price”. The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 31. You've been accused of “watching stupid reality shows” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “pay for and go to a guy's flick”.
    • 32. You've been accused of “being a bad driver” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “be a designated driver for your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 33. You've been accused of “trying on multiple outfits only to end up wearing the first” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 34. You've been accused of “hogging the remote control” and for this you must pay the price”. The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 35. You've been accused of “running the heater full blast when the car engine is cold” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “give your spouse a massage”.
    • 36. You've been accused of “being a gossip queen” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash your spouse's sporting equipment”.
    • 37. You've been accused of “spying on your neighbours” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 38. You've been accused of “asking your spouse, “does my as look big in these jeans?” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash and clean you spouse's car”.
    • 39. You've been accused of “asking your spouse, “do you think so & so is prettier than me?” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offence will be to “give your spouse a massage”.
    • 40. You've been accused of “comparing your spouse to one of your ex's” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “be a designated driver for your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 41. You've been accused of “always picking food off of your spouse's plate” and for this you must pay the price“! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse out to dinner”.
    • 42. You've been accused of “cutting your hair to be spiteful” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 43. You've been accused of “having too many items in the shower” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 44. You've been accused of “always telling your friends your marital issues” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash and clean your spouse's car”.
    • 45. You've been accused of “over planning vacations” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 46. You've been accused of “buying expensive designer clothes for the kids” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “buy your spouse a case of beer/liquor”.
    • 47. You've been accused of “wearing too much perfume” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 48. You've been accused of “dragging your spouse out shopping” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “be a designated driver for your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 49. You've been accused of “wearing sexy outfits when you go out with the girls” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 50. You've been accused of “having verbal diarrhea” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take out the garbage/recycle for the week”.
    • 51. You've been accused of “trying on multiple outfits every time you go out for the evening” and for this you must pay the price”. The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse”.
    • 52. You've been accused of “wanting to “cuddle” after sex” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take out the garbage/recycle for the week”.
    • 53. You've been accused of “making your spouse sleep on the couch when you argue” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “watch a sporting event on TV with your spouse”.
    • 54. You've been accused of “always being cold” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “give your spouse a massage”.
    • 55. You've been accused of “pouting when you don't get your own way” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse breakfast in bed”.
    • 56. You've been accused of “being catty towards your spouse's female friends” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse out to dinner”.
    • 57. You've been accused of “having too many guy friends” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash your spouse's sporting equipment”.
    • 58. You've been accused of “being “inactive” when you have sex” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take out the garbage/recycle for the week”.
    • 59. You've been accused of “buying and reading trashy romance novels” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “watch a sporting event on TV with your spouse”.
    • 60. You've been accused of “always turning the lights off before sex” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be a “Free Choice” by your spouse.
    • 61. You've been accused of “thinking your spouse can read your mind” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “give your spouse a massage”.
    • 62. You've been accused of “snooping thru your spouse's wallet” and for this you must pay the price“! The consequence for this offense will be to “run 2 errands for your spouse”.
    • 63. You've been accused for “always complaining you have “nothing to wear” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 64. You've been accused of “always changing your hair color” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “be a designated driver for your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 65. You've been accused of “taking credit for your children's positive attributes” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash and clean your spouse's car”.
    • 66. You've been accused of “blaming your spouse for your children's negative attributes” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 67. You've been accused of “needlessly calling your spouse at work several times a day” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “watch a sporting event on TV with your spouse”.
    • 68. You've been accused of “making “to do” lists for your spouse” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “wash and clean your spouse's car”!
    • 69. You've been accused of “buying your spouse clothes he never wears” and for this you must pay the price. The consequence for this offense will be to “watch a sporting event on TV with your spouse”.
    • 70. You've been accused of “making your spouse hold your purse” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this event will be to “serve your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 71. You've been accused of “always changing your mind” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take your spouse out to dinner”.
    • 72. You've been accused of “opening your spouses private mail or email” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “buy your spouse a case of beer/liquor”.
    • 73. You've been accused of “asking your spouse to do something and then complaining it's not done right” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “serve your spouse and his buddies for 1 night”.
    • 74. You've been accused of “piling useless pillows on the couch and bed” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “take out the garbage/recycle for the week”.
    • 75. You've been accused of “admitting to a sexual dream about your spouse's hot friend” and for this you must pay the price! The consequence for this offense will be to “give your spouse a massage”.

It will be appreciated that in alternate examples, the first track card members 118 associated with the first category may comprise alternate game information.

In the exemplified game, the game information 138 of at least some of the first track card members 118 associated with the second category (also referred to as “Busted” category) comprises information relating to major relationship offenses. More particularly, in the exemplified game, the game information 138 on at least some of the cards associated with the “Busted” category (also referred to as “Busted” cards”) comprise text stating that a player has been caught carrying out (i.e. has been “busted for”) or is accused of a major relationship offense. The major offenses may differ depending on whether the “Busted” card is associated with the first sub-category (e.g. the female sub-category) or the second sub-category (e.g. the male sub-category). For example, the major offenses on female sub-category of “Busted” cards may include offenses that are common to or are often associated with women, and the major offenses on the male sub-category of “Busted” cards may include offenses that are common to men or are often associated with men. Further, the game information 138 on at least some of the “Busted” cards may comprise information relating to the consequences of the collection of these cards. For example the cards may state “Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be Taken to the Cleaners!”. Further, the game information on at least some of the “Busted” cards may comprise a phrase directed to the player. For example, the cards may state “Get it Together Honey!”

In some particular examples, the game information listed on the male sub-category of “Busted” cards may include any of the following phrases, parts of the following phrases, or variations of the following phrases:

    • 1. You've been “Busted” for “being a mamma's boy”. Time to spread your wings Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!
    • 2. You've been “Busted” for “calling out another woman's name during sex”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 3. You've been “Busted” for “having lipstick on your collar”. Hello! What were you thinking? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 4. You've been “Busted” for “hiring a hot secretary”. You're walking on thin ice Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 5. You've been “Busted” for “hiring a hot nanny”. You're walking on thin ice Pal!Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 6. You've been “Busted” for “a lingerie receipt on your credit card statement”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 7. You've been busted for “ogling another woman in front of your spouse”. Pervert! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 8. You've been “Busted” for “comparing your spouse's cooking to you mother's”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 9. You've been “Busted” for “losing the family savings at the casino”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 10. You've been “Busted” for “losing your wedding ring when you were out with the boys”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”.
    • 11. You've been “Busted” for “not providing enough foreplay before sex”. Aren't we selfish! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 12. You've been “Busted” for “having perfume on your shirt”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted Cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 13. You've been “Busted” for “not helping out enough with the kids”. You're walking on thin ice Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 14. You've been “Busted” for “not giving your spouse oral sex”. Aren't we selfish! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 15. You've been “Busted” for “sleeping with your secretary”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!
    • 16. You've been “Busted” for “sleeping with your nanny”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 17. You've been “Busted” for “sleeping with your spouse's best friend”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 or these cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 18. You've been “Busted for “working too much and never being home”. Not a good move pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 19. You've been “Busted” for “being insensitive”. You'll pay for this! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 20. You've been “Busted” for “going out all night drinking”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 21. You've been “Busted for “having a girl's phone number in your shirt pocket”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 22. You've been “Busted” for “keeping a nude picture or your ex-girlfriend”. Hello! What were you thinking? Collect 3 Busted cards and you cold be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 23. You've been “Busted” for “forgetting your spouse's birthday”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 or these cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 24. You've been “Busted” for “forgetting your anniversary”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 25. You've been “Busted” for “forgetting Valentines Day”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 26. You've been “Busted for “having dinner with an ex-girlfriend”. You'll pay for this one! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 27. You've been “Busted” for “lying about where you were when you went out with the guys”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 28. You've been “Busted” for “chatting on an online dating website”. Pervert! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 29. You've been “Busted” for “using different discipline for the kids”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 30. You've been “Busted” for “being a big baby when you're sick”. Grow up! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 31. You've been “Busted” for “giving the dog more attention than your spouse”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 32. You've been “Busted” for “giving the kids more attention than your spouse”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 33. You've been “Busted” for “receiving secret telephone calls”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 34. You've been “Busted” for “being unable to give your spouse an orgasm”. Wimp! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 35. You've been “Busted” for “falling asleep right after sex”. Aren't we selfish! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 36. You've been “Busted” for “always going to strip clubs”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 37. You've been “Busted” for “letting your mother control your life”. Time to spread your wings Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”
    • 38. You've been “Busted” for “trashing your In-laws”. Never a good move Buddy!Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 39. You've been “Busted” for “insulting your Mother-in-law”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted Cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 40. You've been “Busted” for “treating your spouse differently when you are with your buddies”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 41. You've been “Busted” for “ignoring what your spouse says”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 42. You've been “Busted” for “refusing to talk about things”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 43. You've been “Busted” for “getting a beer belly”. You're walking on thin ice Pal! Collect 3 Busted Cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 44. You've been “Busted” for “rolling you eyes at your spouse”. You'll pay for this one! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 45. You've been “Busted” for “never making decisions”. Get it together Buddy!Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 46. You've been “Busted” for “never supporting your spouse's decisions”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 47. You've been “Busted” for “suddenly changing your habits”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 48. You've been “Busted” for “being unreliable”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 49. You have been “Busted” for “having a secret email address”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 50. You have been “Busted” for “receiving a romantic text on your cell phone”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 51. You have been “Busted” for “blatantly flirting with a girl in front of your spouse”. You're walking on thin ice Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 52. You have been “Busted” for “not listening”. You'll pay for this one! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 53. You have been “Busted” for “taking your spouse for granted”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 54. You have been “Busted” for “embarrassing your spouse in public”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 55. You have been “Busted” for “not noticing your spouse's new clothes”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 56. You have been “Busted” for “not noticing a new haircut”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 57. You have been “Busted” for “not appreciating all of the little things your spouse does”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 58. You've been “Busted” for “hiding money in a secret bank account”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 59. You've been “Busted” for “always working late”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 60. You've been “Busted” for “calling your spouse by your ex-girlfriend's name”. Hello! What were you thinking? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 61. You've been “Busted” for “siding with your family when there is a dispute”. Not a good move pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 62. You've been “Busted” for “chronic premature ejaculation”. Wimp! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 63. You've been “Busted” for “being sexually inept”. Wimp! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 64. You've been “Busted” for “being caught wearing your spouse's underwear”!Pervert! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”.
    • 65. You've been “Busted” for “being caught wearing your spouse's lingerie”. Pervert! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 66. You've been “Busted” for “not being handy around the house”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 67. You've been “Busted” for “not maintaining your spouse's car”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 68. You've been “Busted” for “not calling when you are going to be late”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 69. You've been “Busted” for “never telling your spouse that you love her”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 70. You've been “Busted” for “not being romantic”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 71. You've been “Busted” for “reconnecting with an ex on Facebook”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 72. You've been “Busted” for “always thinking your right”. Not a good move pal!Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 73. You've been “Busted” for “buying your spouse a treadmill for Christmas”. Hello! What were you thinking? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 74. You've been “Busted” for “suggesting a sexual fantasy with one of your spouse's hot friends”. Not a good move Pal! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 75. You've been “Busted” for “not respecting your spouse's opinion”. Never a good move Buddy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!

In some particular examples, the game information listed on the female sub-category of “Busted” cards may include any of the following phrases, parts of the following phrases, or variations of the following phrases:

    • 1. You have been “Busted” for “using sex as a weapon”. Aren't we vindictive! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 2. You have been “Busted” for “letting your looks go”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 3. You have been “Busted” for “losing your wedding ring when you were out with the girls”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 4. You have been “Busted” for “having a hicky on your neck”. Aren't we a Floozy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 5. You have been “Busted for “giving the kids more attention than your spouse”. Never a good idea Dear! Collect 3 Busted Cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 6. You've been “Busted” for “giving the dog more attention than your spouse”. Never a good idea Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 7. You have been “Busted” for “not shaving in the proper places”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 8. You've been “Busted” for “spending too much time at the gym with your “Hunk” personal trainer”. Aren't we a Floozy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 9. You have been “Busted for “having an affair with your boss”. Aren't we a Floozy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 10. You have been Busted” for “sleeping with your spouse's best friend”. Aren't we a Floozy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 11. You've been “Busted” for “accepting questionable gifts from your boss”. Aren't we a Floozy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 12. You have been “Busted” for “calling out another man's name during sex”. Honey, what were you thinking? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 13. You've been “Busted” for “calling out another woman's name during sex”. Honey, what were you thinking? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 14. You have been “Busted” for “never supporting your spouse's decisions”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 15. You have been “Busted” for “being a nag”. Lighten up Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 16. You have been “Busted” for “not being able to cook like your mother-in-law”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 17. You have been “Busted” for “not giving your spouse oral sex”. Aren't we selfish! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 18. You have been “Busted” for being “frigid in bed”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 19. You have been “Busted” for “puffing on weight”. Never a good idea Dear!Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 20. You have been “Busted” for “being high maintenance”. Aren't we a Princess? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 21. You have been “Busted” for “being a drama queen”. Aren't we special? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 22. You have been “Busted” for “always having a headache”. Really? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 23. You have been “Busted” for “not wanting to get a job”. Aren't we a Princess? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 24. You have been “Busted” for “racking up the credit card”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 25. You have been “Busted” for “being a back seat driver”. Aren't we a “Little Miss Know it all”! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 26. You have been “Busted” for “having a secret email address”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 27. You have been “Busted for “receiving a romantic text on your cell phone”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 28. You've been “Busted” for “reconnecting with an ex on Face book”. Never a good idea Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”
    • 29. You have been “Busted” for “insulting your mother-in-law”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 30. You have been “Busted” for “trashing your in-laws”. Never a good idea Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 31. You've been “Busted” for “throwing out your spouse's old underwear”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 32. You have been “Busted” for “chatting on an on-line dating website”. Aren't we a Floozy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 33. You have been “Busted for “faking orgasms”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 34. You have been “Busted” for “not having dinner ready when your spouse gets home from work”. What's your problem? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 35. You have been “Busted” for “having a guy's business card in your purse”. Not a good move dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!
    • 36. You have been “Busted” for “always criticising”. Aren't we special? Collect 3 busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 37. You have been “Busted” for “always thinking you're right”. Aren't we special? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 38. You have been “Busted” for “being too jealous”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 39. You have been “Busted for “using different discipline for the kids”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 40. You have been “Busted” for “having dinner with and ex boyfriend”. Aren't we a Floozy! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 41. You have been “Busted” for “passing gas”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 42. You have been “Busted for “wearing granny underwear”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 43. You have been “Busted for “giving your spouse the silent treatment”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 44. You have been “Busted” for “improper use of the remote control”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 45. You have been “Busted” for “not letting your spouse go out with his friends”. Lighten up Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 46. You have been “Busted” for “excessive spending on make-up”. Aren't we a Princess? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 47. You have been “Busted” for “excessive spending at the beauty salon”. Aren't we a Princess? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”
    • 48. You have been “Busted” for “trying to change your spouse”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 49. You have been “Busted” for “trashing your spouse's friends”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 50. You have been “Busted” for “over-reacting to issues”. Lighten up Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 51. You have been “Busted” for “being irrational”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 52. You have been “Busted” for “telling your spouse how to spend his money”. Aren't we a “Little Miss Know it All”! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 53. You have been “Busted” for “always wanting to out-do your friends and neighbours”. Aren't we special? Collect 3 Busted card and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 54. You've been “Busted” for “always complaining about money”. Aren't we a Princess? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 55. You've been “Busted” for “always bringing up past mistakes when you argue with your spouse”. Aren't we vindictive! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 56. You've been “Busted” for “complaining about the size of your diamond ring”. Aren't we a Princess? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 57. You've been “Busted” for “complaining about what your spouse doesn't do but not appreciating what he does do”. Aren't we special? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 58. You've been “Busted” for “blaming your spouse for all of your problems”. Aren't we special! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 59. You've been “Busted” for “talking in a demanding tone of voice”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”.
    • 60. You've been “Busted” for “always offering un-solicited advice” Aren't we a “Little Miss Know It All”! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 61. You've been “Busted” for “complaining about your spouse's handy work”. Aren't we a Princess! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 62. You've been “Busted” for “acting like a mother to your spouse”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 63. You've been “Busted” for “always saying, “I told you so”. Aren't we a “Little Miss Know It All”! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 64. You've been “Busted” for “being insecure”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 65. You've been “Busted” for “taking your spouse for granted”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 66. You've been “Busted for “accidentally calling your spouse by an ex's name”. Nice move Einstein! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!
    • 67. You've been “Busted” for “complaining about money and then complaining that your spouse works too much”. Aren't we special? Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 68. You've been “Busted” for “scrolling thru your spouse's cell phone looking at calls made and calls received”. Aren't we Nosy! Collect 3 busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 69. You've been “Busted” for “always thinking the grass in greener on the other side”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 70. You've been “Busted” for “having a lesbian affair”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 71. You've been “Busted” for “being overly anal about “where everything goes”. Lighten up Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 72. You've been “Busted” for “always using the fact that you had to go thru childbirth against your spouse”. Aren't we a Princess! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 73. You've been “Busted” for “manipulating the children against your spouse”. Aren't we vindictive! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 74. You've been Busted for “not responding well to the effects of gravity”. Get it together Honey! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”
    • 75. You've been “Busted” for “suddenly buying sexy underwear and lingerie”. Not a good move Dear! Collect 3 Busted cards and you could be “Taken to the Cleaners!”

In some examples, the game information 138 of the first track cards 118 associated with the third category (also referred to as the “Splitsville” category) may comprise one or more of the following:

    • 1. Instructions to manipulate another card member. For example the “Splitsville card may comprise instructions for a player to transfer an “Oops” card to another player;
    • 2. Instructions to manipulate the “Splitsville” card. For example the “Splitsville” card may comprise instructions to store the “Splitsville” card
    • 3. Information related to family law. For example, the “Splitsville” card may inform the player that they or their spouse or spousal equivalent have been assigned a particular lawyer, have signed a prenuptual agreement, have attended marriage counseling, or have committed adultery.
    • 4. Information related to a personal situation. For example, the “Splitsville” card may inform the player that they or their spouse or spousal equivalent has suffered a midlife crisis.
    • 5. Instructions to carry out a task related to the game information. For example, the “Splitsville” card may instruct the player to reveal or hide the game information on the “Splitsville” card.
    • 6. Information related to relationship assets. For example, the “Splitsville” card may inform the player that they have been awarded a particular relationship asset.
    • 7. Miscellaneous game information.

In the exemplified game, the Splitsville cards are divided into the following sub-categories:

A. Lawyer Cards, which inform a player that they have been assigned a particular divorce lawyer, and that they have been awarded a particular relationship asset. Particular examples of text on Lawyer cards may include:

    • 1. “Tenacious Tina”—Congratulations! Tina comes with 4 Major Assets! Kids, Alimony, Child Support, Matrimonial Estate
    • 2. “Terrible Ted”—Congratulations! Ted comes with 4 Major Assets! Dog, Sports Car, Yacht, Seasons Tickets
    • 3. “Ruthless Ruth”—Lucky You! Ruth comes with 3 Major Assets! Diamond Ring, Florida Condo, French Villa
    • 4. “Pit Bull Peter”—Lucky You! Peter comes with 3 Major Assets! Business, Secret Bank Account, Pension Plan
    • 5. “Ditzy Donna”—Not Bad! Donna comes with 2 Major Assets! Retirement Fund, Cayman Stock Account
    • 6. “Forgetful Phil”—Not Bad! Phil comes with 2 Major Assets! Life Insurance Policy, Private Jet
    • 7. “Lazy Lucy”—Sorry About Your Luck! Lucy comes with only 1 Major Asset! Flight Miles
    • 8. “Wimpy Willy”—Sorry about your luck! Willy comes with only 1 Major Asset! Wine Collection

B. Major Prenuptual Agreement Cards, which inform a player that they have signed a prenuptual agreement, and have been awarded a major relationship asset. A particular example of text on a Major Prenuptual Agreement Card may include:

    • CONTRATULATIONS! (Do not Reveal) You've signed a Prenup. Your Prenup gives you 1 Major Asset. (Remember . . . a Prenup card “always” trumps a Lawyer Card!)

The Major Prenuptual Agreement Card may further list the particular major asset which the player has been awarded. For example, a major asset may include, but is not limited to, a Dog, a Sports Car, a Yacht, Seasons Tickets, a Diamond Ring, a Florida Condo, a French Villa, a Business, a Secret Bank Account, a Pension Plan, a Retirement Fund, a Cayman Stock Account, and a Life Insurance Policy.

C. Minor Prenuptual Agreement Cards, which inform a player that they have signed a prenuptual agreement, and have been awarded a minor relationship asset. A particular example of text on a Minor Prenuptual Agreement Card may include:

SORRY ABOUT YOUR LUCK! (do not reveal) Your Prenup is weak!

The Minor Prenuptual Agreement Card may further list a particular minor asset which the player has been awarded. For example, a minor asset may include, but is not limited to, Patio Furniture, blinds, Linens, Dishes, Tupperware, a Barbeque, Tools, Bicycle, Lamps, and Silverware.

D. Miscellaneous Splitsville Cards, which may inform the player of a miscellaneous event and may instruct the player to take an action in response to the event. Particular examples of Miscellaneous Splitsvilee Cards may include the following text:

    • 1. MARRIAGE COUNSELLING! (do not reveal) CONGRATULATIONS! You have successfully completed a “Marriage Counselling” course. Return 1 “Busted” card when it is your turn or if you are being “Taken to the Cleaners”!
    • 2. SCREW YOUR NEIGHBOUR! (do not reveal) CONGRATULATIONS! Transfer 1 Oops task of your choice to any of your Friends when it is your turn!
    • 3. IN YER FACE! (do not reveal) CONGRATULATIONS! Transfer 1 Oops task of your choice to your Spouse when it is your turn!
    • 4. IRRECONCIALABLE DIFFERENCES! (do not reveal) ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! Use this card to call for an immediate split! You still require a Lawyer card but if you feel that you have a definite advantage, take your spouse “To The Cleaners!” (Your spouse does not need to have 3 Busted! cards)
    • 5. 7 YEAR ITCH! (read aloud) You've succumbed to the 7 Year Itch! Tsk! Tsk! Transfer all of your Prenup cards to your Spouse.
    • 6. MID-LIFE CRISIS! (read aloud) You've been suffering through a Mid-Life Crisis! Poor Thing! Treat yourself to one of your spouses Prenup cards.
    • 7. ANNULMENT CARD! (do not reveal) CONGRATULATIONS! Your marriage has been annulled and you “automatically” win the game! Have some fun stringing your spouse along!!! Keep this card secret until the very end of the game. Then give your spouse the “ULTIMATE” Surprise!!!!

In the example shown, the second track card members 120 represent relationship assets. That is, each second track card member 120 represents a particular relationship asset. For example, the second track card members 120 may comprise an asset indicia (not shown), which indicates a particular a relationship asset. The indicia may include a text description or name of a relationship asset, an image of a relationship asset. For example, a second track card member may include an image of a home. Alternately, the second track card members may be 3D figurines, and the indicia may comprise the shape of the second track card member. The relationship assets may be any of the relationship assets listed above, or any other asset.

Referring now to FIG. 1E, in the example shown, the gameboard 112 is a flat and rectangular laminated cardboard sheet, with the features of the game (e.g. tracks, game information, etc.) printed thereon, as is known in the art. In alternate examples, gameboard 112 may be another configuration. For example, gameboard 112 may be wooden, and the features of the board game may be engraved thereon. Alternately, the gameboard 112 may not be rectangular. Preferably, the gameboard 112 has a crease defined thereon so that it may be easily folded for storage.

As mentioned hereinabove, gameboard 112 comprises at least one track along which the first and second playing pieces are movable. In the example shown, gameboard comprises a first track 122 and a second track 124. The first track 122 and the second track 124 are closed loops. That is, there is an absence of a pathway connecting the first track 122 and the second track 124.

The first track 122 comprises a plurality of first track areas 140. Each first track area 140 represents a location on the board at which a playing piece 102, 104 may stop.

In the exemplified game, some of the first track areas 140 are each associated with one of the categories mentioned hereinabove (e.g. an “Oops” category, a “Busted” category, or a “Splitsville” category). The particular category with which a first track area 140 is associated indicates to a player to select a first track card member 118 from that category, as will be described below. The first track areas 140 may comprise a category indicia 126 indicating which category a given first track area 140 is associated with. For example, as shown, a plurality of the first track areas 140 are printed with the text “Category 1”, indicating that these first track areas 140 are associated with category 1 (these first track areas are also referred to herein as “Oops” areas), another plurality of the first track areas 140 are printed with the text “Category 2”, indicating that these first track areas 140 are associated with category 2 (these first track areas are also referred to herein as “Busted” areas), and another plurality of the first track areas 140 are printed with the text “Category 3”, indicating that these first track areas are associated with category 3 (these first track areas are also referred to herein as “Splitsville” areas). In addition to text, a logo or drawing may be printed on the first track areas, or a three-dimensional shape may be provided on the first track areas. It will be appreciated that the category indicia 126 of the game board may or may not be identical to the category indicia 126 on the first card members. For example, the category indicia 126 on a particular first track area 140 may be an exclamation point, and the category indicia 126 on a card of the same category may be text stating “Oops”.

As noted hereinabove, in the exemplified game, only some of the first track areas 140 are associated with a category. Accordingly, remaining track areas are not associated with a category. These track areas may include miscellaneous indicia 142 (represented in FIG. 1C by the letter “X”), which in the exemplified game instructs a player to carry out a task associated with the miscellaneous indicia. Preferably, the miscellaneous indicia relates to marriage or relationships. For example, the miscellaneous indicia may comprise printed text stating one or more of “Lover's Spat”, “What's your beef?”, “Dog house”, “Imitate Your Spouse”, “Wishful Thinking”, “The way we were”, or “All is forgivien”. The task to be carried out in association with each of these miscellaneous indicia will be described further hereinbelow.

In the exemplified game, some of the first track areas 140 comprise both category indicia 126 and miscellaneous indicia 142. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 1E, the track areas at each corner of the track comprise a category indicia, and are also printed with the text “Start”. This indicates to a player to both start the game with the playing pieces 102, 104 at this first track area, and to select a first track card member 118 if the player lands on the first track area 140 during the game. In the example shown, the game board 112 comprises four first track areas 140 printed with the text “start” (also referred to herein as “start” areas). Accordingly, if more than one pair is playing the game, for example four pairs, each pair may start on a “start” area. Further, each of the “start” areas may include an indicia associating the particular start area with a particular playing piece. For example, as mentioned hereinabove, each bride figurine and each groom figurine of each pair may have an accessory of a particular color. Accordingly, the “start” areas may each comprise one of the particular colors, indicating that the figurines of a particular color must start on this start area of that particular color.

In alternate examples, each of the track areas may be associated with a category, and track areas with miscellaneous indicia may not be provided.

In some examples, rather than or in addition to printing on each first track area 140, the category 126 or miscellaneous 140 indicia may include a color, a three-dimensional shape, or electronic text.

The second track 124 comprises a plurality of second track areas 144. Each second track area 144 represents a location on the game board 112 at which a game piece 102, 104 may stop. In the example shown, some of the second track areas 144 are each associated with a second track card member 120. That is, as noted hereinabove, each of the second track card members 120 comprises an asset indicia and represents a relationship asset. Further, at least some of the second track areas 144 comprise an asset indicia 148. The asset indicia 148 on a particular second track area 144 indicates to a user to select a particular second track card member 120. For example, an image or text on a second track area 144 representing a home may indicate to a user to select the second track card member 120 representing a home. It will be appreciated that the asset indicia 148 of the game board may or may not be identical to the asset indicia of the second card members. For example, the asset indicia 148 on a particular second track area 144 may be an image of a home, and the asset indicia on the corresponding second track card member 120 may be text stating “home”.

In addition, some of the second track areas 144 may comprise miscellaneous indicia 142. For example, in the exemplified game, one of the second track areas comprises text stating “Supreme Court Judgement” (represented by the letter “Y in FIG. 1C). This indicates to a player that an action must be taken, as will be described further hereinbelow. Additionally, at least one of the second track areas 144 may comprise indicia indicating to a user that the second phase of the game is started at that particular second track area 144.

An example of a specific game board is shown in FIG. 2. This game board is similar to the board game of FIG. 1E, however, the various indicia of the game board are specific words and images, some of which are mentioned herein (e.g. text stating “Oops”). Further, the game board of FIG. 2 further comprises guide areas 146, which indicate to a user to store the various decks of first track card members on the guide areas.

An example of a method of playing the board game described hereinabove will presently be described. It will be appreciated that the method may be played with the particular exemplified board game described and shown herein, or with another board game. The method will be described with relation to a first player and a second player playing against each other. However, as mentioned hereinabove, more than two players may play the game. Further, the method will be described in accordance with one example of game rules that may be applied to the method of playing the game. However, it will be appreciated that the rules may be modified. Accordingly, statements which indicate that a player “must” do something are intended only to indicate that they must do this in order to follow a particular rule of a particular set of rules, and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

As mentioned hereinabove, the game is preferably played by two spouses or spousal equivalents. In the example discussed below, the game involves two phases: a first phase, and a second phase. Some features of the first phase represent a “real life” aspect of the game. That is, in the first phase of the game, a player may be required to provide “real life” information about their spouse or their relationship. Alternately a player may be required read out-loud game information relating to relationship offenses or tasks. As these offenses and tasks may be those that occur commonly in relationships, the couples may be encouraged to discuss their own “real-life” offenses and tasks. Some features of the second phase of the game may represent a “fantasy” aspect of the game. That is, in the second phase of the game, the players may pretend or fantasize that they are going through a separation or divorce. Further, it allows the couples to obtain “fantasy” assets, most of which the average person will never have, such as a yacht or a French villa.

At the start of the game, each player is assigned a playing piece 102, 104. To start a first phase of the game, the playing pieces 102, 104 are placed on the first track 122 of the game board 112 at a start area. Any method may be used to determine which player plays first. For the purposes of this description, the player that plays first will be called the first player, and the playing piece assigned to the first player will be referred to as playing piece 102.

The first player may manipulate one or more movement control pieces 106, 108 to display an indicia directing movement of his playing piece. In the exemplified game, the first player rolls a pair of dice, such that the dice display a number. The first player then moves their playing piece 102 along the first track 122 as directed by the movement control pieces 106, 108 to one of the first track areas 140. For example, the first player may roll a 6 on the dice, and may move his playing piece 102 forward by six first track areas.

If the player lands on a first track area 140 associated with a category, the player selects a first track card member 118 associated with that category. For example, if the player lands on an “Oops” area, the player must select an “Oops” card. As stated hereinabove, in the exemplified game, the “Oops” cards comprise game information relating to a past minor relationship offense, and instructions for a player to carry out a task for another player. Alternately, if the player lands on a “Busted” area, the player must select a “Busted” card. As stated hereinabove, in the exemplified game, the “Busted” cards comprise game information relating to a past major relationship offense. Alternately, if the player lands on a “Splitsville” area, the player must select a “Splitsville” card. As stated hereinabove, in the exemplified game, the “Splitsville” cards comprise a variety of game information, and includes “Lawyer” cards.

In accordance with one particular set of game rules, if the category is the “Oops” category or the “Busted” category, the player must read the game information on the card, preferably out loud, and store the card. The players may optionally discuss the game information out loud, and preferably, if the game information relates to relationship offenses or tasks, the players may discuss how these offenses and tasks effect their “real life”. If the category is the “Splitsville” category, the player must read the game information on the card, either out loud or silently depending on the game information on the card, and store the card. Further, the player may optionally be required to store the cards such that the first face 128 of the card is facing upwards, so that the second player may see that the first player has possession of a first track card member of a particular category.

The player may optionally then take one or more actions based on the game information on the card. For example, if the category is the “Splitsville” category, the player must carry out the particular instructions on the “Splitsville” card. For example, the player may be required to transfer an “Oops” card to or from another player. Alternately, if the category is the “Busted” category, the player may store the card without taking an action.

As mentioned hereinabove, in the exemplified game, the first track 122 of the game board 112 comprises first track areas 140 comprising miscellaneous indicia 142. In accordance with one optional rule, if the player lands on a first track area 140 that comprises the miscellaneous indicia 142, the player must carry out a task associated with the miscellaneous indicia 142. Preferably, the task associated with the miscellaneous indicia relates to “real-life” For example, If the player lands on a first track area 140 containing the text “Doghouse”, the player must perform an immediate task chosen by their spouse or spousal equivalent. For example, their spouse or spousal equivalent may instruct the player to fetch them a drink. Accordingly, the task is a “real-life” task. If the player lands on a first track area 140 containing the text “Imitate Your Mate”, the player must act out an imitation of their spouse or spousal equivalent. If the player lands on a first track area 140 containing the text “What's Your Beef”, the player must voice their displeasure about a “real-life” habit or trait of their spouse or spousal equivalent. If the player lands on a first track area 140 containing the text “The Way We Were”, the player must tell a “real-life” story about how their spouse or spousal equivalent behaved in an earlier time in their relationship. If the player lands on a first track area 140 containing the text “Wishful Thinking”, the player must state something they wish they could change about their spouse or spousal equivalent in “real-life”. Alternately, the task associated with the miscellaneous indicia may not relate to real life. For example, if the player lands on a first track area 140 containing the text “All is forgiven”, the player must return all of their “Busted” cards to the deck.

As mentioned hereinabove, in the exemplified game, some of the first track areas are both associated with a category, and are a “start” square. For example, a first track area may be of the “Busted” category, as well as a “start” area. Furthermore, in some examples, such areas may comprise an indicia indicating that a particular couple is to start on that area (e.g. the area may comprise the same color as a playing piece). In accordance with one optional rule, if a playing piece lands on a “start” area associated with another pair (e.g. if a green playing piece lands on a red “start” area), the player must obtain a first track card member associated with the category of the first track area (e.g. must pick up a “Busted” card). However, if a playing piece lands on a “start” area that is associated with its own pair (e.g. if a green playing piece lands on a green “start” area), the player is not required to obtain a first track card member associated with the category of the first track area. In some examples, the miscellaneous indicia 142 on the game board 112 may include an indicia of this rule. For example, the relevant first track areas may be printed with the text “Happily Married!” (as shown in FIG. 2), as well as an indicia of the category, and as an alternate to or in addition to text stating “start”.

The first phase of the game continues as the players take turns manipulating the movement control pieces 106, 108, moving their respective playing pieces 102, 104, obtaining first track card members 110, and optionally taking actions based on the game information 138 in the first track card members.

In order for the game to progress to the second phase of the game, one or both of the players must have obtained a pre-determined combination of first track card members 118. The particular combination may vary, however, in accordance with one particular set of game rules, in order for the game to progress, one player must have at least one “Lawyer” card, and the other player must have at least three “Busted” cards. At any time after this pre-determined combination is obtained, the player who has the “Lawyer” card must indicate that they wish to take the game to phase two of play. For example, the player may announce that they wish to take their spouse “To the Cleaners”.

As mentioned hereinabove, in some examples, first track card members 118 may be provided which can allow a player to overturn the decision to take the game to phase two of play. For example, a “Splitsville” card may state:

    • MARRIAGE COUNSELLING! (do not reveal) CONGRATULATIONS! You have successfully completed a “Marriage Counselling” course. Return 1 “Busted” card when it is your turn or if you are being “Taken to the Cleaners”!
      Accordingly, the player who holds this card may present this card when the other player has indicated that they wish to take the game to phase two of play.

In the absence of the decision to take the game to phase two of play being overturned, the game progresses to the second phase of play. In the exemplified game, to progress the game, the players must move their game pieces 102, 104 to the second track of the game board, and place their playing pieces 102, 104 on a start area of the second track area. Further, in the exemplified game, the players must reveal the first track card members 118 that they have obtained. As mentioned hereinabove, some of the first track card members may contain information indicating that a player has or has not been awarded a relationship asset. For example, a “Splitsville” card may include text stating “Tenacious Tina”-Congratulations! Tina comes with 4 Major Assets! Kids, Alimony, Child Support, Matrimonial Estate”. When the cards are revealed, the players each obtain the second track card members 120 which represent the relationship assets they have been awarded. For example, if a player is in possession of this particular card, the player then obtains the second track card members representing kids, alimony, child support, and matrimonial estate.

The first player may then manipulate the movement control pieces 106, 108 to display an indicia directing movement of his playing piece. For example, the first player may roll a pair of dice, such that the dice display a number. The first player may then move his playing piece 102 along the second track 124 as directed by the movement control pieces 106, 108 to one of the second track areas. For example, the first player may roll a 6 on the dice, and may move his playing piece 102 forward by six second track areas 144, and land on a particular second track area.

If the second track area 144 on which the first player has landed is associated with a relationship asset, the first player then determines if the second track card member 120 associated with that asset is already in possession of the second player. In accordance with one optional game rule, if the associated second track card member 144 is already in the possession of the second player, the first player must forfeit a second track card member to the second player. In some examples, if the first player lands on a second track area 144 associated with a minor asset, and the second track card 120 associated with the minor asset is already in the possession of the other player, the first player must forfeit only a minor asset. Similarly, if the first player lands on a second track area 144 associated with a major asset, and the second track card 120 associated with the major asset is already in the possession of the second player, the first player must forfeit a major asset. In some examples, the forfeited asset may be chosen by the player to which it is being forfeited.

If the associated second track card member 120 is not already in the possession of the second player, the first player is awarded the associated second track card member (i.e. is awarded the relationship asset represented by the associated second track card member).

In exemplified game, the second track 124 of the game board 112 comprises second track areas 144 comprising miscellaneous indicia 142 as described hereinabove. In accordance with one optional rule, if the first player lands on a second track area 144 that comprises miscellaneous indicia, the player must carry out a task associated with the miscellaneous indicia. For example, as mentioned hereinabove, a second track area 144 may contain the text: “Supreme Court Judgment”. This text indicates to the player that they are entitled to manipulate the movement control pieces 104, 106, and to take possession of the number of second track card members 120 associated with the indicia displayed by the movement control pieces. For example, the user may roll a 4 on the dice, and may then take possession of four second track card members. If 4 second track card members 120 do not remain in the game (i.e. are not possessed by either player), the player may take second track card 120 members from the other player.

The game continues as the players take turns manipulating the movement control pieces 106, 108, moving their respective playing pieces 102, 104, obtaining second track card members 120 associated with the second track areas on which they land, and optionally, forfeiting second track card members. A winner is determined when one of the first player and the second player has obtained a predetermined number of second track card members 120 (i.e. has obtained a predetermined number of relationship assets). For example, the winner may be the player who obtains each of the second track card members 120, or each of the second track card members 120 associated with major assets. Accordingly, in the example shown, the second phase of the game is a “fantasy” phase of the game, as the players obtain “fantasy” assets, and go through a “fantasy” divorce or separation.

Optionally, in accordance with one set of game rules, the winner of the game is entitled to assign a task to the loser of the game. For example, the winner of the game may be entitled to select a predetermined number, for example 3, “Oops” cards that the loser of the game obtained over the course of the first phase of the game. The loser is then required to carry out the task on the “Oops” card in “real-life”. Optionally, the board game may include a pledge sheet, which lists the tasks which the loser must carry out. The pledge sheet may be displayed in the home of the players until the tasks are completed.

In an alternate example of a boardgame (not shown), the game board may comprise only one track. For example, the first track areas and the second track areas of the exemplified game may be combined into a single track. Accordingly, the method of playing the game may include moving around a single track and may include only a single phase of play. Further, the first track areas and the second track areas may be combined into single track areas. For example, a given track area may be associated with a category, and with a relationship asset. Further the first track card members and the second track card members may be combined into single cards. For example, a single card may comprise both game information, and may comprise an indicia of an asset.

Claims

1. A method of playing a board game, the method comprising:

a) manipulating at least one movement control piece, the movement control piece configured to display an indicia in response to manipulation;
b) moving one of a first playing piece and a second playing piece along a track of a gameboard to one of a plurality of track areas on the track as directed by the movement control piece;
c) obtaining a card member associated with the one of the plurality of track areas, the card member comprising at least one of game information relating to an occurrence of a past relationship offense, game information relating to family law, game information related to a relationship asset, and an indicia of a relationship asset; and
d) repeating steps (a) to (c) until at least one of the first player and the second player has obtained a pre-determined combination of card members.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the predetermined combination of card members comprises a predetermined number of card members comprising an indicia of a relationship asset.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein three categories of card members are provided, as well as card members comprising the indicia of the relationship asset.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the three categories of card members comprise:

i) a first category comprising game information relating to a past occurrence of a minor relationship offense and game information instructing a player to carry out a task;
ii) a second category comprising game information relating to a past occurrence of a major relationship offense; and
iii) a third category comprising game information relating to at least one of family law, information relating to a relationship asset, and instructions for a player to carry out a task.

5. The method of any of claim 1, wherein:

i) the gameboard comprises a first track comprising a plurality of first track areas, at least some of the first track areas are each associated with one of a plurality of categories
ii) a second track comprising a plurality of second track areas, and
iii) at least some of the card members are first track card members and are each associated with one of the plurality of categories;
iv) at least some of the card members are second track card members and are each associated with one of the second track areas.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein

i) the first track card members comprise game information indicating an occurrence of a past relationship offense, game information relating to family law, and game information related to a relationship asset; and
ii) the second track card members comprise the indicia of the relationship asset.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein

i) step (b) comprises moving the one of the first playing piece and the second playing piece along the first track; and
ii) step (c) comprises obtaining a first track card member.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein

i) step (b) comprises movement the one of the first playing piece and the second playing piece along the second track; and
ii) step (c) comprises obtaining a second track card member.

9. A boardgame comprising:

a) at least a first and a second playing piece;
b) a game board, the game board comprising at least one track along which the first and second playing pieces are movable, the track comprising a plurality of track areas; and
c) a plurality of card members, the card members comprising at least one of game information indicating an occurrence of a past relationship offense, game information relating to family law, game information related to a relationship asset, and an indicia of a relationship asset;
d) at least a first movement control piece configured to display an indicia in response to a manipulation of the first movement control piece.

10. The board game of claim 9, wherein three categories of card members are provided, as well as card members comprising the indicia of the relationship asset.

11. The board game of claim 10, wherein the three categories of card members comprise:

a) a first category comprising game information relating to a past occurrence of a minor relationship offense and game information instructing a player to carry out a task;
b) a second category comprising game information relating to a past occurrence of a major relationship offense; and
c) a third category comprising game information relating to at least one of family law, information relating to a relationship asset, and instructions for a player to carry out a task.

12. The boardgame of claim 9, wherein:

i) the gameboard comprises a first track comprising a plurality of first track areas, at least some of the first track areas are each associated with one of a plurality of categories
ii) a second track comprising a plurality of second track areas, and
iii) at least some of the card members are first track card members and are each associated with one of the plurality of categories;
iv) at least some of the card members are second track card members and are each associated with one of the second track areas.

13. The board game of claim 12, wherein

i) the first track card members comprise game information indicating an occurrence of a past relationship offense, game information relating to family law, and game information related to a relationship asset; and
ii) the second track card members comprise an indicia of a relationship asset.

14. A board game comprising:

a) at least a first and a second playing piece;
b) a game board, the game board comprising; i) a first track along which the first and second playing pieces are movable in a first phase of the game, the first track comprising a plurality of first track areas, at least some of the first track areas associated with one of a plurality of categories; and ii) a second track along which the first and second playing pieces are movable in a second phase of the game, the second track comprising a plurality of second track areas;
c) a plurality of first track card members, each first track card member associated with one of the plurality of categories and comprising game information;
d) a plurality of second track card members, each second track card member associated with one of the second track areas; and
e) at least one movement control piece configured to display an indicia directing movement of the playing pieces along the tracks in response to manipulation of the movement control piece.

15. The board game of claim 14, wherein the first track and the second track are closed loops and there is an absence of path connecting the first and second tracks.

16. The board game of claim 14, wherein the first track and the second track are concentric.

17. The board game of claim 16, wherein each of the first track card members comprises a first face and a second face, and

a) the first face of each first track card member comprises one of a plurality of category indicia indicating the category with which the card member is associated,
b) at least some of the first track areas comprise one of the plurality of category indicia indicating the category with which the first track area is associated; and
c) the second face of each first track card member comprises the game information.

18. The board game of claim 14, wherein the plurality of categories comprises at least a first category, a second category, and a third category.

19. The board game of claim 18, wherein the game information of at least some of the card members associated with the first category comprises information relating to a past minor relationship offense by a first player, and instructions for the first player to carry out a second task for a second player

20. The board game of claim 19, wherein at least some of the card members associated with the first category are further subdivided into a first sub-category and a second sub-category, the card members of the first sub-category comprising an indicia indicating that the card member is to be picked up by a female player, and the card members of the second sub-category comprising an indicia indicating that the card member is to be picked up by a male player.

21. The board game of claim 18, wherein the game information of at least some of the card members associated with the second category comprises information relating to a past major relationship offense.

22. The board game of claim 18, wherein the game information of at least some of the card members associated with the third category comprises instructions for a player to manipulate at least one of another of the first track card members or one of the second track card members.

23. The board game of any of claim 18, wherein the game information of at least some of the card members associated with the third category comprises information relating to family law.

24. The board game of claim 18, wherein the game information of at least some of the card members associated the third category comprises information relating to a relationship asset.

25. The board game of claim 14, wherein at least some of the second track areas comprises one of a plurality of asset indicia, at least some of the asset indicia indicating an relationship asset.

26. The board game of claim 25, wherein each of the second track card members comprises one of the plurality of asset indicia.

27. The board game of claim 14, wherein the movement control piece comprises a die.

28. A method of playing a board game, the method comprising:

a) manipulating at least one movement control piece to display an indicia directing movement of one of a first playing piece and a second playing piece;
b) moving the one of a first playing piece and the second playing piece along a first track on a game board to one of a plurality first track areas as directed by the random indicia, wherein at least some of the first track areas are each associated with one of a plurality of categories;
c) obtaining a first track card member based on the category with which the one of the plurality of first track areas is associated;
d) repeating steps (a) to (c) until one or both of the first player and the second player has obtained a pre-determined combination of card members;
e) moving one or both of the first game piece and the second game piece to a second track;
f) manipulating the at least one movement control piece to display another indicia;
g) moving one of the first playing piece and the second playing piece along a second track on the game board to one of a plurality of second track areas as directed by the random indicia;
h) obtaining a second track card member associated with the one of the second track areas; and
i) repeating steps (f) to (h) until one of the first player and the second player has obtained a predetermined combination of second track card members.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein t step (c) further comprises taking an action based on the game information displayed on the first track card member.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the action comprises at least one of storing the first track card member, obtaining at least a first other first track card member from a first other player, giving the first track card member to the first other player, and carrying out a task chosen by the first other player.

31. The method of claim 28, further comprising;

(i) determining a winner and a loser based on the one of the first player and the second player that has obtained the predetermined combination of second track card members; and
(j) assigning at least one task to the loser.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the task is at least one of a household chore, and a favor to the winner.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the task is assigned based on the first track card members obtained by the loser in step (c).

34. The method of claim 28, further comprising

a) manipulating the at least one movement control piece to display an indicia;
b) moving one of the first playing piece and the second playing piece along the first track as directed by the movement control piece to one of the plurality first track areas; and
c) performing a task based on miscellaneous indicia in the one of the first track areas.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the task relates to real-life.

36. The method of claim 28, further comprising forfeiting the second track card member associated with the one of the second track areas.

37. The method of claim 1, further comprising taking an action based on the game information.

Patent History
Publication number: 20100181721
Type: Application
Filed: Jan 20, 2010
Publication Date: Jul 22, 2010
Inventors: Frank JANICEK (Toronto), Alexandra Beaudoin (Laval)
Application Number: 12/690,201
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Chance Device Controls Amount Or Direction Of Movement Of Piece (273/243)
International Classification: A63F 3/00 (20060101);