Ataxx (1990) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Ataxx is an abstract strategy board game that was released in 1990 by Dave Crummack and Craig Galley. The game was published by various companies, including Capcom Co., Ltd., Leland Corporation, Virgin Mastertronic, and Wise Owl Software. Ataxx is known for its simple rules and deep strategy, making it a popular choice among fans of abstract board games.

Game Components of Ataxx

Board: A 7×7 grid.

Pieces: Each player starts with two pieces, known as “Globs,” placed on diagonally opposing corners.

Obstacles: Some fields on the board may be blocked off.

Control Mechanism: Originally used dual trackball controls for arcade version; can also be played with joysticks or adapted from other board games like Reversi/Othello and Go.

How To Setup Ataxx

To set up Ataxx, place the 7×7 grid board in the playing area. Each player starts with two pieces positioned on the diagonally opposing corners of the board. Some versions of the game include pre-set obstacles or blocks on the board, which cannot be moved or converted during the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Players take turns moving one piece either one or two spaces.
– Moving one space: Duplicates the piece if the new space is adjacent to the original.
– Moving two spaces: Does not duplicate the piece but can capture opponent’s pieces.

Capture Mechanism: Any opponent’s pieces adjacent to the new position are converted to the player’s color.

Objective: The game ends when the board is completely filled. The player with the most pieces on the board wins.

Time Control: In the arcade version, players have a time limit for each turn, which can be extended with additional credits.

Player Experience

Ataxx offers a strategic and competitive experience, particularly suited for fans of abstract strategy games. The game requires careful planning and adaptation to the changing board layout, including the placement of obstacles. The use of trackball controls in the arcade version adds a unique physical element to the gameplay.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Encourages thoughtful planning and strategy.

Competitive: Supports multiplayer and competitive play against AI opponents of varying difficulty.

Unique Controls: The original trackball controls provide a distinct and engaging way to play.

Adaptability: Can be adapted to different board layouts and obstacles, offering varied gameplay experiences.

Cons

Time Pressure: The time limit in the arcade version can be stressful and may not appeal to all players.

Limited Physical Release: Never released as a physical board game, though it can be simulated using other board games.

Steep Learning Curve: New players may find the rules and strategies complex to grasp initially.

Personal Thoughts on Ataxx

Ataxx is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games and are looking for a challenge that requires both short-term and long-term planning. It is particularly suited for fans of games like Reversi and Go, and its unique mechanics make it a standout in the world of abstract strategy games. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer more casual or simple board games.

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