Queen’s Guard (1842) – Board Game Guys

Agon: A Strategy Board Game

Agon is a strategy board game invented by Anthony Peacock of London and first published in 1842. It is a two-player game played on a 6x6x6 hexagonal gameboard, and it is considered the oldest known board game played on a hexagonal board.

Origins

Agon was first played in France in the late 18th century, with its first official mention in 1872. It is believed that Adam Vaugeois may have copyrighted the game around 1780.

Popularity

Agon gained popularity in the Victorian era for its blend of simple rules and complex strategy. The game has been published by various companies, including Waddingtons Games, House of Marbles, and Kruzno.

Gameplay Mechanics

Each player has a Queen and 6 guards, and the objective is to be the first to move the Queen from the edge of the board to the central point and surround her with all 6 guards. The game is easy to learn but engrossing, suitable for players of all ages.

Components

The game board is made of beech wood and measures approximately 320 x 300 x 25mm. It includes 12 wooden playing pieces (6 black and 6 white) and a set of rules.

Is Agon similar to About Time?

Agon and About Time are different in terms of their plots and genres, but they both offer valuable life lessons. While Agon focuses on intense conflict and competition, About Time explores the theme of time travel and the importance of living in the present. Both are worth watching to learn more about time.

Variations and Expansions

There are no significant variations or expansions for Agon, as the game is relatively simple and straightforward.To purchase Agon online, you can find it on various websites, such as Masters Traditional Games and Evil Hat Productions. Related games include other abstract strategy games and historical board games.

Game Components of Queen’s Guard

Board: A 6×6×6 hexagonal gameboard, often colored in alternating rings to highlight the concentric layers.

Pieces: Each player has one queen and six guards, typically made from materials like Beech wood.

How To Setup Queen’s Guard

To set up the game, players place their queen and six guards in a set configuration at the edge of the board. The exact positions can vary, but a common setup involves placing the pieces in predetermined spots at the board’s edge. An alternative setup involves placing the queens in opposite corners and then alternating turns to place the guards on any vacant cells (except the throne).

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: The goal is to be the first player to move their queen to the central hex (the throne) and surround her with all six guards.

Moves: Pieces move one step at a time to an adjacent cell, either sideways in the same ring or towards the throne to the next ring. Only the queen can move to the throne.

Captures: A piece is captured when sandwiched between two enemy pieces in a straight line. Captured guards must be moved to the outer board ring, while captured queens can be moved to any vacant cell on the board.

Special Rules:
– A player cannot move a piece between two enemy pieces in a straight line.
– If a player touches one of their pieces, they must move that piece or forfeit their turn.
– If a player surrounds the empty throne with their guards, they forfeit the game.

Player Experience

Queen’s Guard is a game of pure strategy with no element of chance, making it appealing to players who enjoy tactical gameplay. The hexagonal board adds a unique twist to traditional board game mechanics, requiring players to think carefully about each move. The game is relatively quick to learn but challenging to master, making it suitable for players of various skill levels.

Pros

Unique Hexagonal Board: Provides a fresh and challenging gameplay experience compared to traditional square-grid boards.

Pure Strategy: No randomness involved, making it a great game for strategic thinkers.

Historical Significance: It is the oldest known board game played on a hexagonal board.

Quick Setup: The game takes only about 30 seconds to set up.

Cons

Complexity in Rules: While the basic rules are simple, the capture and special rules can be complex for new players to grasp.

Potential for Stalemate: If a player surrounds the empty throne with their guards, the game is forfeited, which can be frustrating.

Personal Thoughts on Queen’s Guard

Queen’s Guard is an excellent choice for fans of abstract strategy games and those interested in the history of board games. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy games like chess but are looking for something with a unique twist. The game’s strategic depth and historical significance make it a compelling addition to any board game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for casual players who prefer games with simpler rules or those seeking a game with a shorter playtime.

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