Hack Trick (2015) Board Game

Hack Trick is a card game that was released in 2015 by Mind Fitness Games. It is designed for 2 to 4 players and has a playtime of 15 to 25 minutes. The game falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy, Card Game, and Deduction, with gameplay focusing on area majority/influence, hand management, and variable player powers.

Game Components of Hack Trick

Cards: A deck of cards used for gameplay.

Tokens: Yellow and purple cubes, with one larger cube of each color for a specific variant.

Board: A small board where cards and tokens are placed.

How To Setup Hack Trick

To set up Hack Trick, start by assembling the board. Give one player the yellow cubes and the other the purple cubes. Shuffle the cards and flip two face-up above the board. Each player receives a hand of cards: one player gets three cards, and the other gets four. The player with four cards begins by placing one of their cards face-up below the board and announcing the sum of the card values in their hand. The other player then announces the sum of the card values in their hand, and the game starts.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Win the game by hacking three terminals either in a line (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) or by hacking the same terminal three times.

Turn Actions: Players can either draw a card (if they have three or fewer cards) or play a card. Played cards must be different from the rightmost card in the row.

Token Placement: Tokens are placed based on the sum of the card played and the previous card in the row. If an opponent’s token is already there, it is captured.

Hacking and Firewalls: Players can spend a token to hack their opponent (forcing them to play a card) or set up a firewall (preventing the opponent from hacking them next turn).

Discarding Opponent’s Tokens: Before taking an action, a player can discard one of their opponent’s tokens to force the opponent to reveal the sum of their hand.

Player Experience

Hack Trick offers a dynamic and strategic gameplay experience that is reminiscent of games like tic-tac-toe but with additional layers of complexity. Players must keep track of their opponent’s card values and use this information to block their opponent’s moves and create opportunities for themselves. The game requires a balance between short-term tactics and long-term strategy, making it engaging and challenging.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Despite its simple setup, Hack Trick has a rich strategic depth.

High Replayability: Each game can play out differently based on the cards drawn and the strategies employed.

Quick Games: Matches are relatively short, making it a great filler game.

Deductive Elements: Players need to deduce their opponent’s hand, adding a satisfying layer of puzzle-solving.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Understanding the full implications of the game mechanics can take some time.

Limited Components: The game is very compact, which might make it feel less substantial to some players.

Two-Player Only: It is designed specifically for two players, limiting its versatility.

Personal Thoughts on Hack Trick

Hack Trick is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a strong deductive component. It is perfect for those who appreciate games that demand careful planning and tactical execution. While it may not be the best fit for players seeking a large, complex board game experience, it is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quick, intellectually stimulating game that can be played in a short amount of time.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.