History

How it all began…

First and foremost, BANANAGRAMS is a labor of love!

The original BANANAGRAMS game grew from a passionate love of games. As a family of three generations, spanning in age from 7 – 75 years, the Nathansons loved to play all word games, but no existing game had the speed and fluidity the family craved.

They longed for a game that was competitive, but that the family could play together – ALL ages at the same time. The game had to be portable for convenience when travelling, with no superfluous pieces or packaging, and simple enough game play so that it could be enjoyed while waiting in a restaurant or hanging around in an airport.

After marathon sessions experimenting with various permutations of word games (and subjecting extended family and friends to hours of testing), the Nathansons finally came up with BANANAGRAMS. The name originated from Abe declaring, “This anagram game will drive you bananas!” – hence Bananagrams! The family knew they’d hit the target with this game. They loved the fact that one round could be played in as little as five minutes, but found the game so addictive, it was always hard to put away! The pouch went everywhere with them. The kids wouldn’t leave the house without it - and still won’t!

The Nathansons didn’t set out with the idea of selling and marketing the game. They just loved playing it with friends and family, and started making a few extras to give as gifts. Eventually, someone suggested the game be shared with the general public, and it took off from there!

After a successful launch at the London Toy Fair in January 2006, BANANAGRAMS is now a modern classic.

It’s fast, fun, and exciting! The family feels very fortunate that the games have been so well received.

Thank you to everyone who supported the family and to all those who continue to enjoy BANANAGRAMS® as well as the other titles that have been added to the BANANAGRAMS family of games – Click here to see the full line up of new games.

Founder