Summer is the perfect excuse to take playtime outdoors. When the sun is shining, the garden or even the local park becomes an extension of your living room and board games suddenly feel fresher, more active and a whole lot more fun. There’s something special about gathering the family on the grass, hearing the birds in the background and enjoying a classic game in the open air. Outdoor-friendly games bring a different kind of energy, bigger movements, louder laughs and a sense of freedom you just don’t get around the dining table. That’s exactly where the PlayWorks Get Set Play! Tic-Tac-Toe from The Works shines. It takes a timeless favourite, that most of generally play on paper, and transforms it into a lively, oversized experience that feels tailor‑made for summer afternoons.
This giant version of tic-tac-toe (or noughts and crosses, depending on what you grew up calling it) is designed to be simple and instantly engaging. The set includes a large tic-tac-toe playmat / sheet (a plastic mat with a nine square / 3×3 grid – it measures approx. 90x90cm) that lays flat on grass, patio or even indoors if the weather turns, along with large 5 large plastic X pieces (or crosses) and 5 large plastic O pieces (or noughts) that are easy for all ages to handle. The scale alone makes it feel more exciting than the pen‑and‑paper version – kids love the physicality of placing their piece and adults can’t resist getting involved either. It’s one of those games that draws people in without needing any explanation.
This is a game that everyone already knows how to play, so there’s no rulebook to decipher or complicated setup to worry about (although it does come supplied with a simple instruction sheet just in case). That makes it ideal for family gatherings, barbecues, birthday parties or simply keeping the kids entertained in the garden during the holidays and weekends. Younger children can join in without feeling overwhelmed, while older players can enjoy the strategic side of trying to outwit their opponent. It’s a rare game that genuinely works for all ages and the giant format adds just enough novelty to make it feel fresh again.
The components themselves are lightweight, with the red X’s and the yellow O’s hard, lightweight durable plastic. The playmat is a thin plastic sheet (you do want to be careful when placing in on the ground that there are no sharp stones or debris underneath as it might tear and you might need to put a small weight on the corners if there is a strong breeze to stop it flying away). The pieces are easy for children to handle safely and light enough to be carried around – you can take it to the park, the beach or even on holiday without it taking up much space. For families who love outdoor play, that flexibility is a real win.
Overall, the PlayWorks Get Set Play! Giant Tic-Tac-Toe set is a good set to get the kids off their screens and outside, enjoying the summer sun, playing sociable games – a giant and physical version of a classic game.
In terms of gameplay, it’s exactly what you expect: quick, competitive and endlessly replayable. Rounds last only a minute or two, which keeps the pace lively and encourages rematches. Kids in particular love the fast turnaround and it’s a great way to keep them active without needing a huge garden or lots of equipment. It also works brilliantly as a warm‑up game before moving on to something more involved. And older kids and even adults, will enjoy the strategic play involved.
At only £5 we think it is excellent value for money. You’re getting a giant, and portable, outdoor game that feels fun, looks great and delivers hours of entertainment without breaking the bank. It’s not meant to be a premium wooden garden set, but it doesn’t need to be – its charm lies in its simplicity and its ability to get everyone playing together. And for its price point, its cheap and fun entertainment – even if the mat itself only lasts the summer.
The PlayWorks Get Set Play! Giant Tic-Tac-Toe set is a fantastic addition to any family’s summer activities. It’s easy to learn, quick to set up, simple to play and perfect for encouraging outdoor play. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or just enjoying a sunny afternoon with the kids, this oversized classic brings a burst of fun that fits beautifully with the spirit of summer.
Unfortunately when we went to play it at the weekend, the sun had popped off on its own holiday and was replaced with rain and a quite blustery wind so we had to play indoors, but we still had lots of fun and when the sun returns we will be taking it outside.
Rating: 4/5
RRP: £5
For more information or to buy online (or find your nearest The Works store), visit www.theworks.co.uk.