Dobble Connect (2023) Board Game

Dobble Connect is a card game that was released in 2023 by a team of designers including Mathieu Aubert, Denis Blanchot, Jacques Cottereau, Guillaume Gille-Naves, and Igor Polouchine. It is a variation of the popular Dobble game, known for its fast-paced and engaging gameplay. The game is designed for 2-8 players and is suitable for ages 8 and up. With a focus on pattern recognition and speed matching, Dobble Connect offers a fun and competitive gaming experience for players of all skill levels.

Game Components of Dobble Connect

90 hexagonal cards featuring various symbols and everyday items

Cards are colored in orange, green, blue, pink, and black

A rules leaflet

The game is packaged in a small, vibrant cardboard box.

How To Setup Dobble Connect

To set up Dobble Connect, start by sorting the cards into five piles based on their edge colors (orange, green, blue, pink, and black). The black cards serve as starter or point cards. Each player or team selects a color and takes the corresponding pile of cards, placing them face down. A black starter card is then drawn and placed in the center of the table. Players turn over the top card from their colored pile and begin the game. Setup is quick and easy, taking about 5 minutes to understand and start playing.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Match Symbols: Players must quickly match symbols on their cards with those on the starter card or other cards already on the table.

Team Play: Players can play individually or in teams, especially recommended for more than three players.

Hexagonal Card Placement: Cards are placed along the edges of existing cards on the table, ensuring no card is placed on top of another.

Winning Condition: The first team to connect four cards in their team color in a row, column, or diagonal wins the round.

Point System: Winning teams earn point cards (starter cards flipped to show a trophy), and losing teams must give cards to the winning team, which can complicate future rounds.

Player Experience

Dobble Connect retained the infectious energy of the classic Dobble game while introducing a fresh layer of team strategy and competition. The game is highly interactive, with all players acting simultaneously, creating a frantic and fun environment. The updated graphical style featuring everyday items appeals to a broader audience, including teens and adults. The game’s short playing time of about 15 minutes makes it perfect for various settings, such as picnics, parties, or family gatherings.

Pros

Fast-Paced and Engaging: Quick reactions and sharp perception are required, making it exciting for all players.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules that can be understood in just a few minutes.

Portable: Packaged in a compact box, easy to take anywhere.

Team Strategy: Adds a new layer of teamwork and strategy to the classic Dobble gameplay.

Versatile: Can be played with 2-8 players, making it suitable for various group sizes.

Cons

Card Management: Winning teams may find it challenging to manage the increasing number of cards from opposing teams.

Packaging: Unlike the classic Dobble, which comes in a convenient metal tin, Dobble Connect comes in a less portable cardboard box.

Personal Thoughts on Dobble Connect

Dobble Connect is perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking for a game that combines speed, strategy, and teamwork. It maintains the core excitement of the original Dobble while offering a fresh spin that appeals to both children and adults. The game’s ability to accommodate a wide range of player numbers and its quick setup make it an excellent addition to any game collection. However, the slightly less convenient packaging may be a minor drawback for some players. Overall, Dobble Connect is a great choice for those who enjoy fast-paced, interactive games with a touch of strategy.

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