Should I get present DC asked for, even if I know it will be disappointing in the end?

[DoubleLottchen]

11 year old DC has asked for a film-themed version of a classic board game for Christmas.

It's the only thing he's asked for.

We already have the original version of the game (DC is not that bothered about it, has played once, and hasn't asked to play again.)

Reading the reviews, it seems the themed version has quite complicated rules, which DC might struggle with, and which would very probably exclude younger siblings, so we'd be less likely to all play as a family (which DC really enjoys).

I know DC is mainly wowed by the packaging and the theme. There are other different board games available with the same theme, and I think some of them would be more up DC's street, and more accessible for younger players.

It makes more sense to buy one of the different games instead.

But, DC has asked for this specific game only. I think he would ultimately enjoy one of the different games more, but I know there is likely to be a moment of disappointment when it's unwrapped, and it's the "wrong" one.

What would others do, I am going round in circles?

1. Get the one that DC asked for, and accept that it is likely to sit on the shelf gathering dust, at least for a couple of years.

1. Get a different game, that I know will be played with more, but risk disappointing DC on Christmas day.

1. Explain to DC that game is too complicated, and that it will be likely more fun in a couple of years time, and suggest that he tries to come up with something different for this year.

DC probably would agree to this, but might still be secretly disappointed.

Get the Cluedo. (and also the scrabble if you can afford it).
It isn't a massively expensive gift and 11 is about the right age to learn the lesson that what you think you want isn't what you might really want or need.
In our house the Tooth fairy game and the chocolate coin maker met this need perfectly.

I think also sometimes it’s worth getting “character stuff” if it then encourages them to give it a try. You never know it might encourage a love of more complicated board games (I’m biased but I reckon that’s a good thing)

Also if it doesn’t get much use then it can sit on a shelf safely until you’re ready to play it, or sell it in decent condition

If it's the only thing he has asked for then I would definitely get it.

The extra bits to it are things like being able to use floo powder (tokens) to move between rooms if fires are lit. The extra bits do make it more complicated but it’s ok once you’ve got to grips with it and they are the bits that make it ‘harry potter’.

Id do A, still get him it , ive gotten my kids things that they asked for but i wasnt keen on it but they still loved it x

Right, I have ordered the cluedo. Thank you to everyone who helped me to make up my mind. PPs are right, it wasn't a silly or extravagant request, and he's bound to be chuffed with it.

I'm actually considering ordering the scrabble as well now. You're only 11 once, after all.

If it's the only thing that he's asked for then I'd get it for him.