Stick Stack (2016) Board Game

Stick Stack is an action/dexterity board game released in 2016 by various publishers such as Broadway Toys LTD, Lúdilo, Mandoo Games, Popcorn Games, and Wonder Forge. The game was designed by Forrest-Pruzan Creative, Brad Ross, and Jim Winslow. Stick Stack is suitable for players aged 8 and above, with a runtime of around 30 minutes. It can accommodate 2 to 99 players, making it a great choice for larger groups.

Game Components of Stick Stack

36 multicolored sticks with ridged and textured surfaces

A plastic base

A post connected to the base via a flexible spring

A hexagonal platform with colored sides (red, green, orange) and a white central area

A narrow bag with an elastic cord for drawing sticks.

How To Setup Stick Stack

To set up Stick Stack, assemble the tower by placing the post on the base and attaching the hexagonal platform to the post. Position the tower in the middle of the table. Then, place all the sticks into the draw bag, ensuring they are not visible.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Action/Dexterity

Mechanics: Pattern Building

Objective: Build a tower by placing sticks on the platform, matching colors (green on green, yellow on yellow, etc.), without causing the tower to topple.

Turn Structure:
– Draw a stick from the bag or use one from in front of you.
– Place the stick on the tower, ensuring it touches only matching colors.
– Collect any sticks that fall off during your turn and place them in front of you.

Scoring:
– One point for each stick in front of you at the end of the round.
– Five points if you cause the tower to topple or all sticks to fall off.

Game End: The game ends when a player reaches 11 points or more; the player with the lowest score wins.

Player Experience

Stick Stack is a simple yet engaging game that combines elements of Pick Up Sticks and Jenga. It is easy to learn and fun to play, especially for younger kids and as a light interlude between longer games. The game components are sturdy, and the varied color distribution on the sticks adds an extra layer of challenge.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to a wide range of ages.

Portable: Can be played with a large number of players (2 to 99).

Family-Friendly: Suitable for younger kids and family gatherings.

Quick Games: Rounds typically last about 15 minutes.

Cons

Limited Suspense: Some players find the tower does not topple often enough, reducing suspense.

Spring Durability: The spring in the base can become looser over time, affecting gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Stick Stack

Stick Stack is ideal for those looking for a casual, light-hearted dexterity game. It’s perfect for families, younger children, and as a quick filler game between more complex games. While it may not offer the same level of suspense as other dexterity games, it remains a fun and solid addition to any game collection.

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