Button Up! (2012) Board Game

Button Up! is an abstract strategy board game released in 2012 by designer Cyril Bouquet. The game is designed for 2 players and has a runtime of about 15 minutes. It falls under the category of abstract strategy games and features point-to-point movement mechanics.

Game Components of Button Up!

Button Up! game board

Button pieces in two different colors

Player aid cards

Rulebook

How To Setup Button Up!

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player chooses a color and takes all the buttons of that color.

Place the buttons on the matching colored circles on the board.

Shuffle the player aid cards and place them within reach.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Button Up!, players take turns moving their buttons along the lines on the board. The objective is to be the first player to form a line of your buttons from one side of the board to the other.

Player Experience

Pros:

Quick gameplay makes it easy to play multiple rounds in one sitting.

Simple rules make it accessible for players of all ages.

Strategic depth allows for interesting decision-making.

Cons:

Limited replayability may lead to the game feeling repetitive after multiple plays.

Lack of variability in the game setup may reduce overall excitement.

Personal Thoughts on Button Up!

Button Up! is a solid abstract strategy game that offers a good amount of strategic depth within a short playtime. The game’s build quality is sturdy and the artwork is visually appealing. However, the lack of variability in setup and gameplay may limit its long-term appeal for some players.

In terms of pricing and availability, Button Up! can typically be found at an affordable price point, both new and used. As for alternatives and similar games, players who enjoy abstract strategy games may also want to consider classics like Chess or more modern titles like Santorini.

Ultimately, whether or not Button Up! is worth your time will depend on your preferences for abstract strategy games and your willingness to overlook its potential shortcomings. It is a game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages, making it a good choice for family game nights or casual gaming sessions. However, players looking for more complexity or variability may want to consider other options.

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.