C.O.G. (2017) Board Game
C.O.G., which stands for “Circles of Gears,” is a board game released in in 2017. It is designed by Sebastian Koziner and Rocío Ogñenovich, with artwork by Dr. Finn’s Games. The game falls into the categories of dice, science fiction, and word game, incorporating tile placement and worker placement mechanisms.
Game Components of C.O.G.
How To Setup C.O.G.
To set up C.O.G., players start by assembling the game gadget, which helps in determining the number of rounds and the initial layout based on the number of players. For example, a three-player game begins with a 5×5 tile layout and seven rounds of play. Each player is given a scorecard and a starting hand of three tiles. The player with the highest number on their scorecard starts the game. Players also receive one score token of each color (blue, red, yellow, green) to begin with.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
– Players swap a tile from their hand with a tile in the layout.
– Points are scored when a replaced tile creates a longer link of colors.
– Extra points are awarded if the connected color line forms a solid loop or a connection that is off the edge of the layout, forming a ‘machine’.
– Players cannot break up a constructed machine—it is locked.
– The final score is equal to the lowest score of the four colors.
– Extra turns are available when players score milestones for each color.
Player Experience
C.O.G. offers a engaging and strategic experience, reminiscent of games like Qwirkle. Players need to balance their repairs between all four colors, ensuring they do not neglect any color to maximize their score. The game is easy to pick up after a round or two but presents a significant strategic challenge. It is appealing to both children and adults, with the game gadget and steampunk-inspired artwork adding to its charm.
Pros
Cons
Personal Thoughts on C.O.G.
C.O.G. is an excellent choice for families and strategy enthusiasts looking for a game that combines pattern building with deep strategic thinking. It is particularly great for kids as it introduces them to leadership roles in game management through the use of the game gadget. For adults, it offers a challenging and engaging experience that requires careful planning and strategic execution. Overall, C.O.G. is a versatile game that can be enjoyed by a wide range of players.
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