A worn-out board game cover for "CONTIGO" featuring artwork of a contemplative man positioning colorful game pieces on a grid with sailboats in the background. The tagline at the bottom reads, "Programmed moves add a new dimension to strategy games."
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Contigo (1974)

ByMichail

Contigo is a board game that is part of the 3M Bookshelf Series, which was a set of strategy and economic games published in the 1960s and early 1970s by 3M Corporation. The game is a cross between Mancala (also known as Warri, Oh-Wah-Ree, and Kalah) and more traditional Checkers-like games. Although not as popular or significant as some other board games like Go, which has been played for over 4,000 years and is thought to have originated in China, Contigo has a dedicated following and is considered a classic board game.

Game Components of Contigo

  • Game Board:** A 6×6 grid with Mancala-like pits around the edges.
  • Pawns:** Four different colored sets, with each player having a unique color. Each corner pawn is a “key pawn.”
  • Pebbles:** Used in the pits to determine pawn movement.
  • Boxes:** Two boxes that clip together to form the complete board.

    How To Setup Contigo

    To set up Contigo, players need to assemble the board by clipping the two boxes together. The pawns are placed on the board according to the game version being played. For the two-player alignment game, red and blue pawns are used. For the four-player capture game, all four colors are utilized. Pebbles are distributed into the pits around the board, with varying amounts depending on the game version.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Alignment Game (2 players):**
    – Objective: Get four pawns in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) without any opposing pawns between them.
    – Mechanics: Pawns move vertically or horizontally based on the number of pebbles in the pits they are moving towards.

  • Capture Game (4 players):**
    – Objective: Capture the key pawn of your opponents by landing on it with one of your own pawns.
    – Mechanics: Similar pawn movement rules apply, with the added strategy of capturing opponents’ key pawns.

    Player Experience

    Playing Contigo is a unique and challenging experience that requires strategic thinking. Players must manage two aspects of the game simultaneously: moving pawns on the board and arranging pebbles in the pits. This dual focus can lead to a steep learning curve but also provides a rich and engaging gameplay experience.

    Pros

  • Unique Blend of Games:** Combines Mancala, Tic-Tac-Toe, and Checkers mechanics.
  • High Strategy:** Requires careful planning and adaptation.
  • Versatile:** Can be played with 2 or 4 players with different game modes.
  • Engaging:** Keeps players engaged with its complex yet rewarding gameplay.

    Cons

  • Component Quality:** The game board is flimsy and may not withstand heavy use.
  • Complex Setup:** The initial setup and rules can be confusing for new players.
  • Component Issues:** Pebbles can sometimes fuse together.

    Personal Thoughts on Contigo

    Contigo is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games and are looking for a challenge. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games that require planning and adaptability. While the game’s components could be improved, the unique gameplay mechanics make it a standout in the world of board games. If you’re a fan of games like Mancala or Checkers and arelooking to spice up your gaming sessions, Contigo is definitely worth considering.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl