K3 (2021) Board Game – Board Game Guys

K3 is an abstract strategy board game released in 2021 by designer Felix Kindelan. The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, with a recommended age of 8 and up. With a playtime of around 20 minutes, K3 is a compact and travel-friendly game that challenges players to outwit their opponents through action drafting and strategic decision-making.

Game Components of K3

55 wooden hexagonal pieces in five colors (red, yellow, blue, black, green) and two neutral colors (white and tan).

A cotton bag for piece storage.

A compact, beautifully crafted wooden box.

How To Setup K3

To set up K3, all the colored and tan pieces are placed into the cotton bag. Nine pieces are drawn randomly and laid out as the base of the mountain. Each player then draws a set of pieces based on the player count: 17 pieces for two players, 12 for three players, and 9 for four players. Additionally, each player receives a white and a tan (wild) piece. Players quickly assort their pieces into a pyramid-shaped base camp, with the first player to finish building their pyramid taking the first turn.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Piece Placement: Players can only take pieces from their base camp that are not covered by other pieces.

Mountain Building: Pieces placed on the mountain must sit on top of two other pieces.

Color Matching: Colored pieces must be placed on top of at least one piece of the same color or a tan wild piece.

Penalty: Placing a piece on top of two pieces of the same color allows the previous player to take one of your base camp pieces.

Passing: Drawing a white piece allows a player to pass, but this can only be done once per game unless a white piece is taken by another player.

Objective: The game ends when only one player can place a piece on the mountain, making them the winner.

Player Experience

Playing K3 is a tactile and strategic experience. The game requires players to plan ahead, managing their base camp to ensure they have accessible pieces to place on the mountain. The random draw of pieces adds a layer of unpredictability, making each game unique. Players can observe their opponents’ pieces to plan their moves strategically. The game also offers a cooperative mode where players work together to reach the summit, adding a collaborative element to the puzzle.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: Games typically last 10-15 minutes, making it an excellent filler game.

High-Quality Components: Beautifully crafted wooden pieces and a compact, well-designed box.

Strategic Depth: Requires planning and strategic thinking.

Cooperative Option: Offers both competitive and cooperative gameplay modes.

Portability: Compact and easy to take on the go.

Cons

Limited Depth: The game is not deep, which may not appeal to players seeking more complex gameplay.

Randomness: The random draw of pieces can sometimes lead to uneven starting conditions.

Personal Thoughts on K3

K3 is perfect for those who enjoy puzzle games, abstract strategy, and games with a tactile experience. It is ideal for families and casual gamers due to its easy-to-learn rules and short gameplay duration. Fans of games like *Azul*, *Patchwork*, and *Hive* may also appreciate the strategic and puzzle-solving aspects of K3. Overall, it is a delightful addition to any board game collection, offering a unique blend of strategy and physical interaction.

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.