Cube Quest (2013) Board Game

Cube Quest is a fast-paced dexterity game that was released in 2013 by Gamewright. Designed by Oliver and Gary Sibthorpe, this game combines elements of action, dice rolling, and pattern building to create a unique gaming experience. With its simple rules and engaging gameplay, Cube Quest has become a popular choice for players looking for a fun and competitive two-player game.

Game Components of Cube Quest

Three neoprene mats: Represent the territory of battle, including two castles and a central wall.

Cubes: Each player has a set of cubes, including a King, Strikers, Grunts, and other specialized cubes like Freezes. Each cube has unique properties and behaviors.

Rule sheet: A simple, single-sheet manual outlining the rules and cube list.

How To Setup Cube Quest

To set up Cube Quest, players lay out the three neoprene mats to form the battle terrain. Each player places their King within their castle and distributes their other cubes on their side of the board, ensuring none touch the dividing line between the territories. Players can choose to use a screen to hide their cube placement from their opponent.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Flicking Mechanic: Players take turns flicking one of their cubes to attack the opponent’s cubes or King.

Cube Properties: Different cubes have various abilities, such as Strikers (strong attackers), Grunts (basic soldiers), and Freezes (can immobilize opponent’s cubes).

Capture and Defeat: Cubes landing on the opponent’s side with the ‘captured’ side up are removed and can be rolled to determine if they are returned or defeated.

Game Objective: The game ends when one player’s King is knocked off the board; the player whose King remains wins.

Player Experience

Playing Cube Quest is an exhilarating and often hilarious experience. The game requires a delicate balance between gentle and forceful flicks, as the cubes can behave unpredictably. Players must orbit the table to strategize and execute their attacks, which can lead to moments of schadenfreude and karmic balancing as cubes go awry. Games are short, lasting around 5-15 minutes, allowing for multiple matches in a short period.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules that can be internalized quickly.

Quick Games: Matches are short, making it easy to play multiple rounds.

High Replayability: Unpredictable cube behavior ensures each game is different.

Cognitive Accessibility: Lightweight rules and straightforward gameplay make it accessible for players with cognitive impairments.

Fun and Engaging: Encourages laughter and competitive spirit.

Cons

Physical Demands: Requires fine-grained control over digits and the ability to move around the table, which can be challenging for players with physical disabilities.

Component Issues: Components can easily go off the mat, leading to time spent searching for lost cubes.

Visual Accessibility: Poor visual differentiation between cubes, except for the King, can be a challenge for players with visual impairments.

Personal Thoughts on Cube Quest

Cube Quest is ideal for those who enjoy dexterity games and are looking for a quick, fun, and competitive experience. It is suitable for families and casual gamers who appreciate the tactile and unpredictable nature of the game. However, it may not be the best fit for players with significant physical or visual impairments due to its specific gameplay requirements.

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