Breakthru (1965) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Breakthru is a classic board game that was originally released in in 1965. It is an abstract strategy game with a nautical theme, where two players go head-to-head in a battle of wits and strategy.

Game Components of Breakthru

Game Board: An 11 × 11 cell square grid.

Pieces: One gold-colored “flagship,” twelve gold-colored “escorts,” and twenty silver-colored ships.

Box Contents: Includes the game board, pieces, and rules.

How To Setup Breakthru

To set up Breakthru, the gold player places the flagship on the center square of the board and positions the twelve escorts anywhere within the boldly ruled central area. The silver player then positions the twenty silver ships on twenty squares in the lightly ruled peripheral area of the board. The gold player determines who goes first, either arbitrarily or by a coin toss.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Abstract strategy game.

Players: 2.

Chance: None.

Skills: Strategy, tactics, observation.

Objective:

Gold Player: Evade capture and move the flagship to the perimeter of the board.

Silver Player: Form a blockade to trap the gold flagship and destroy the gold fleet’s escorts to capture the flagship.

Moves:
– Players alternate turns, making two moves or one capture.
– Gold player can move two smaller pieces any number of vacant squares horizontally or vertically, but only one move or capture if the flagship is moved.
– Captures are made by moving any piece one square diagonally to capture an opponent’s piece.

Captures: Use displacement capture, removing the captured piece and occupying the vacated square.

Player Experience

Breakthru offers a deeply strategic gameplay experience, where players must outmaneuver each other in a naval battle-themed setting. The game requires careful planning and tactical execution, as the gold player must evade the silver player’s blockade while the silver player must ensure the gold flagship does not escape.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Encourages strategic thinking and planning.

Historical Roots: Based on the ancient Tafl games, offering a unique historical gaming experience.

Simple to Learn: Basic rules but complex gameplay.

Cons

Out of Production: No longer available for purchase new, making it hard to find.

Component Quality: Criticized for small board and crude-looking pieces.

Limited Availability: Can be expensive to purchase vintage copies.

Personal Thoughts on Breakthru

Breakthru is ideal for those who enjoy abstract strategy games and are fascinated by historical game mechanics. It is a great addition to any board game collection, especially for fans of games like Hnefatafl and Fox and Hounds. However, due to its age and limited availability, it may appeal more to collectors and enthusiasts of vintage board games rather than casual players.

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.