Turing Machine (2022) Board Game

Turing Machine is a board game released in 2022 by Scorpion Masqué. Designed by Fabien Gridel and Yoann Levet, this game combines elements of deduction, math, and spies/secret agents in a unique and engaging way. With a runtime of 20 minutes and suitable for players aged 14 and above, Turing Machine offers a solo gaming experience that challenges players to unravel complex puzzles and codes.

Game Components of Turing Machine

Player Screens/Player Aids: Double as player aids for note-taking and tracking information.

Punch Cards: Used to create three-digit codes and test against verifiers.

Verification Cards: Each associated with specific criteria cards to test the players’ proposals.

Machine Tile: Central component where the verification cards are placed.

Note Sheets: For players to deduce and track their information.

Whiteboard Marker: Used during setup, though it may need to be replaced soon.

Online Resources: Access to over 7 million different setup combinations through the game’s website.

How To Setup Turing Machine

To set up Turing Machine, start by placing the Machine Tile in the center of the play area. Next, set up the Punch Card support and distribute the Punch Cards. Choose a problem from the rulebook or generate one from the game’s website, which will specify which Verifier Cards to use and where to place them. Each player receives a Player Aid and a note sheet. Mark the backs of the Verification Cards to correspond to the correct letters. This setup prepares the game for the deduction process.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deduction Mechanics: Players use punch cards to create a three-digit code and test it against verifiers.

Analog Computing: The game utilizes an analog computer system with perforated cards.

Competitive and Cooperative Modes: Play solo, competitively, or cooperatively.

Objective: Find the secret three-digit code by questioning the analog artificial intelligence computers through the verification process.

Gameplay Process:
– Each player creates a proposal (a three-digit code) using punch cards.
– Players test their proposals against up to three verifiers per round.
– Verify the criteria using the Verification Cards, which indicate whether the proposal meets the criteria.
– Based on the feedback, players refine their proposals until they deduce the correct code.
– The player who solves the code with the fewest questions wins, or the last player remaining wins by default.

Player Experience

Turing Machine offers a unique and challenging experience, blending deduction and logic puzzles. The game feels like a combination of Clue, Mastermind, and Sudoku, with the added twist of using an analog computer system. Players must strategically question the verifiers to uncover the secret code, making it a satisfying and intellectually stimulating game. The game’s variety, with millions of possible puzzles, ensures that it remains engaging over multiple plays. However, it may feel more like a puzzle than a traditional game, which could be a point of contention for some players.

Pros

Impressive Analog Computing: The game’s use of perforated cards and analog computing is innovative and impressive.

High Replayability: Over 7 million possible puzzles available online.

Multiple Modes: Supports solo, competitive, and cooperative play.

Challenging but Accessible: Puzzles scale in difficulty, making it suitable for new and experienced players.

Excellent Production Quality: Well-designed components, including the player screens and punch cards.

Cons

Puzzle Over Game: Some players may find it feels more like a puzzle than a traditional board game.

Repetitive Gameplay: After initial plays, the game might start to feel repetitive.

Potential for Frustration: New players may struggle to understand the logic behind the verification process, leading to frustration.

Personal Thoughts on Turing Machine

Turing Machine is ideal for players who enjoy deduction games, logic puzzles, and coding. It is a great fit for those who appreciate the intellectual challenge of solving complex problems and are fascinated by the concept of analog computing. While it may not be the best choice for players seeking a highly interactive or traditional board game experience, it offers a unique and engaging challenge that can be enjoyable for both solo and group play. If you’re looking for a game that combines strategy, logic, and a touch of historical innovation, Turing Machine is definitely worth considering.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.