COGZ (2015) Board Game – Board Game Guys

COGZ is an abstract strategy board game released in 2015, designed by Wesley Lamont. The game is known for its educational and puzzle elements, making it a great choice for players looking for a challenging and engaging experience. With a runtime of 30 minutes and suitable for players aged 8 and above, COGZ is a game that encourages critical thinking and strategic planning.

Game Components of COGZ

1 Rule Book

1 Variant Book

70 cog tiles

1 drawstring bag

6 score cards

12 cognition nuts

24 scoring tokens

1 game gadget (assembly required)

4 gadget boards

4 brass interscrews

1 assembly blueprint

How To Setup COGZ

To set up COGZ, players start by building a modular board with a layout that varies based on the number of players. For example, a three-player game begins with a 5×5 tile layout and seven rounds of play. Each player is randomly given a scorecard and a starting hand of three tiles. The player with the highest number on their scorecard starts the game. Each player also receives one score token of each color (blue, red, yellow, green) to start on zero.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Swap Tiles: Players swap a tile from their hand with one on the board to create long links of the same color.

Scoring: Points are scored when a replaced tile creates a longer link of colors. No points are scored if the replacement does not change the link.

Machine Formation: A connected color line forming a solid loop or connecting to the edges of the board forms a ‘machine’, scoring extra points at the end of the game.

Balanced Scoring: Each player must balance their scores across all four colors; the final score is the lowest score among the four colors.

Extra Turns: Milestones for each color can earn extra turns.

Player Experience

COGZ offers a engaging and strategic experience, particularly appealing to those who enjoy puzzle games. Players take on the role of a “cogineer,” tasked with repairing a broken cogtraption before the mad professor returns. The game requires forward planning and balancing scores across different colors, making it challenging yet rewarding. The steampunk-inspired artwork and the innovative game gadget add to the game’s charm and ease of use.

Pros

Mensa Endorsed: Recognized for its strategic depth and intellectual challenge.

Color Blind Friendly: Each color has its own internal pattern, making it accessible to color-blind players.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players over 8 years old, with younger players able to learn and enjoy the patterns.

Modular Board: Dynamic setup based on the number of players, ensuring each game is unique.

Engaging Gameplay: Combines short-term and long-term strategy, keeping players engaged.

Cons

Complex Strategy: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the need to balance multiple colors and strategies.

Limited Rounds: The game’s time frame can be stringent, requiring quick decision-making.

Dependence on Luck: Initial tile draws can significantly impact gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on COGZ

COGZ is ideal for fans of abstract strategy and puzzle games who appreciate a challenge with deep strategic layers. It is a great addition to any game collection, especially for families or groups looking for a game that encourages critical thinking and planning. While it may have a learning curve, the game’s short playtime and engaging mechanics make it an excellent choice for both casual and serious gamers.

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