Igel Ärgern

Doris & Frank, University Games · Board game · 1990
— Ludopedia 6.4 BGG 2–6 · best 4 30 min Weight 1.4/5
Buy · from US$ 25.95
— rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy fast races and need a kid‑friendly filler, Igel Ärgern serves up instant fun.

Highlights
  • Simple, quick rules
  • High player interaction
  • Cute components
Keep in mind
  • Luck‑heavy
  • Blockades can feel harsh
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Igel Ärgern, literally "Hedgehogs in a Hurry," is a breezy, fast‑paced game that charms both kids and adults looking for a light‑hearted round. Each player gets four wooden discs representing hedgehogs and places them in one of six rows on a 6×9 grid board. On a turn you roll a die, optionally shift one of your hedgehogs one column left or right, then move **any** hedgehog that sits in the row matching the rolled number forward one space. The catch: black spaces act as traps – a hedgehog landing there cannot move again until it reaches the last position of its row, creating playful blockades. The goal is straightforward – be the first to get three of your four hedgehogs to the far end of the board. While the mechanics are minimal (roll, move, and a dash of row management), the game generates strategic tension as you can shove an opponent's hedgehog into a black space or sprint your own ahead. Later editions add dozens of variants, such as event cards or swapping rules, but the core stays true to its original charm. With a 30‑minute playtime and support for 2‑6 players, Igel Ärgern shines at family gatherings, birthday parties, or as a quick filler between heavier titles. Its 1.37/5 weight signals an almost nonexistent learning curve, and the blend of luck and tactical nudges gives everyone a shot at victory regardless of age. In short, it’s a classic children’s game that still entertains a broad audience thanks to its snappy pace and adorable hedgehog theme.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST
6 REC

Soundtrack

Ambience suggested by Melodice

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Animals: Hedgehogs / Porcupines Components: 6 x 9 Grids
Publisher Doris & Frank, University Games
Designer Doris Matthäus, Frank Nestel
Artist Doris Matthäus

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,252owners
142wishlist
65want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can join?
2 to 6 players, perfect for small to medium groups.
What is the typical playtime?
About 30 minutes, varying slightly with player count.
How complex is the game?
Very low – the learning curve is almost nonexistent, suitable for kids 6+.
What components are included?
Wooden hedgehog discs, a 6×9 grid board, one die, and black markers for blocked spaces.
Who is the game best for?
Families, friends, birthday parties, and anyone needing a quick filler between heavier games.
Are there official variants?
Some editions add dozens of variants, like event cards or swap rules, to keep things fresh.
Is the game very luck‑based?
Yes, the die adds randomness, but the option to move any hedgehog adds a layer of strategy.

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