Fits (1999) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Fits is an abstract strategy board game that was released in in 1999. It is designed by Charles Phillips and R. Wiecek, with artwork by Thomas di Paolo and Thomas Weiss. The game is published by Educa Korea and falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy, Educational, Party Game, and Puzzle. Fits is a tile-placement game that challenges players to build patterns and recognize them in order to score points.

Game Components of Fits

Four inclined player boards

8 double-sided cardboard inserts (4 sets of two)

64 plastic playing pieces resembling the five shapes used in Tetris, divided into four sets of 16

A deck of Start cards

A deck of Build cards

Rule sheet

How To Setup Fits

Each player receives a player board and a set of 16 playing pieces. The first cardboard insert is placed onto the inclined player board, and a Start card is drawn to determine the initial piece to be placed at the bottom of the ramped board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Number of Players: 1-4

Age Range: 10 and up

Playing Time: 30-45 minutes

Game Category: Puzzle, Strategy

Mechanics: Simultaneous Action Selection, Pattern Building

Objective: Players aim to fill their boards with the least number of gaps by placing polyominoes according to the cards drawn.

Round 1: Cover dots to minimize gaps.

Round 2: Cover dots while leaving numbered circles uncovered.

Round 3: Cover dots, leave numbered circles uncovered, and avoid penalty circles.

Round 4: Cover dots and align shapes to match pairs for points.

Victory Conditions: The player with the highest overall score after four rounds wins.

Player Experience

FITS is a game that keeps players constantly thinking about their grid, as they simultaneously place pieces determined by the cards. This mechanic eliminates downtime, allowing players to stay engaged throughout. While there is no direct player interaction, the lack of interference can be a welcome aspect, especially for younger players, as it allows them to focus on their own puzzle without distractions.

Pros

Engaging Puzzle Mechanics: Encourages special-recognition and reasoning skills.

No Downtime: Players act simultaneously, keeping everyone engaged.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for kids and adults alike, promoting cognitive development in younger players.

Quick Setup and Play: Easy to learn and start playing within minutes.

Replayability: Different boards and challenges in each round ensure varied gameplay.

Cons

Lack of Player Interaction: No mechanics to affect other players’ grids.

Component Quality: Some reviewers have noted that the cardboard pieces and ramped boards can be flimsy.

Simplicity: Some players find the rule that pieces cannot be rotated or shifted too simplistic.

Personal Thoughts on Fits

FITS is an excellent choice for families and puzzle enthusiasts. It is particularly great for children as it helps develop their cognitive skills without the stress of direct competition. For adults, it offers a quick, engaging game that can be played in a short amount of time. While it may not appeal to those seeking complex strategy or interpersonal gameplay, FITS shines as a light, fun, and intellectually stimulating addition to any board game collection.

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