Cortex + Challenge (2018) Board Game

Cortex + Challenge is a card game released in 2018 that is designed to challenge players’ memory and pattern recognition skills. Created by Sébastien Lopez, this game falls under the categories of educational, memory, and party games, making it a fun and engaging option for players of all ages.

Game Components of Cortex + Challenge

90 cards, including 74 Test Cards, 6 Touch Challenge Cards, and 10 Raised Touch Cards

6 Brain Jigsaw pieces (24 pieces in total)

1 rulebook

Touch cards with various textures such as peacock feathers, parrot, cheese grater, asphalt, rust, ice crystals, beetle, golf ball, nuts, and lychees.

How To Setup Cortex + Challenge

To set up the game, shuffle the deck of 90 cards and place them face down in a pile. Each player starts with no cards. The touch cards are introduced at the beginning, allowing players 30 seconds to familiarize themselves with the different textures. Once everyone is ready, the game begins by turning over the top card from the deck, and all players must work out the answer and slap their hand over the card, shouting the answer.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Multitasking: Players must solve multiple tasks simultaneously.

Observation: Identifying patterns or anomalies.

Squares: Solving maze-like challenges.

Analysis: Analyzing data to find the correct answer.

Unique: Finding unique elements.

Combination: Combining different pieces of information.

Tracking: Following sequences or patterns.

Touch Challenge: Recognizing textures.

Game Objective:

Collect two cards of the same challenge type to exchange for a brain piece.

Win four brain pieces before other players to win the game.

Players can only hold a maximum of four cards at any time.

Player Experience

Cortex Challenge is a fast-paced, competitive game that tests players’ thinking, memory, and speed skills. Games typically last around 15-20 minutes, making it an ideal addition to family game nights or quick gaming sessions. The game is portable and easy to set up, making it great for travels. However, some players might find certain challenges, like the color-dependent ones, difficult if they have color vision deficiencies.

Pros

Portable and Easy to Set Up: The game is compact and easy to carry.

Variety of Challenges: Offers a diverse range of mental and tactile challenges.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 8+ and enjoyable for both children and adults.

Competitive: Encourages competition and quick thinking.

Affordable: Priced around £12-£14, making it a good value for the price.

Cons

Color Vision Issues: Some challenges are not accessible for players with color vision deficiencies.

Limited Replay Value: The game may become repetitive after several plays.

Small Brain Pieces: The brain pieces are small and can be easily lost.

Personal Thoughts on Cortex + Challenge

Cortex Challenge is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a fun, mentally stimulating game. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy competitive and fast-paced games that test various cognitive skills. While it may not offer long-term replay value, its affordability and portability make it a worthwhile addition to any game collection. It’s particularly recommended for family game nights or as a quick, engaging activity on the go.

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