Lacuna (2023) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Lacuna is an abstract strategy board game designed by Nick Liefhebber and released in in 2023. The game is designed for 2 players and has a relatively short runtime of 10-15 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable game to play.

Game Components of Lacuna

49 wooden flower pieces (7 each of 7 different colors)

12 metal markers (6 for each player, often in gold and silver)

A cloth mat resembling a pond

A ruler for measuring distances

A tube for storing and scattering the flowers.

How To Setup Lacuna

To set up Lacuna, start by laying out the cloth mat on the table. Pour the wooden flower pieces from the tube onto the mat, scattering them randomly. If any flowers roll off, simply pick them up and drop them back onto the mat. Ensure the flowers are spread out evenly to avoid clusters. The first player takes one flower to balance out the advantage of the second player making the final move.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Area Control: Players place metal markers to control areas of the board.

Resource Collection: Collecting flowers based on marker placement.

Geometric Placement: Markers must be placed on a direct line of sight between two flowers of the same color.

Game Objective:

The objective is to collect sets of flowers. Each player aims to get four or more flowers of the same color in at least four different colors to win.

Players take turns placing their markers between matching flowers, ensuring no obstructions.

After all markers are placed, the remaining flowers are awarded to the player whose marker is closest to them. The ruler is used to resolve any disputes over proximity.

Player Experience

Lacuna offers a unique blend of simplicity and strategic depth. The game is easy to teach and can be learned in about 30 seconds, but it requires thoughtful placement of markers to optimize flower collection. Each turn involves reevaluating the board to find the best positions for your markers, considering both immediate flower collection and long-term area control. The game’s meditative nature and beautiful components create a soothing and engaging experience, making it perfect for players looking for a relaxing yet challenging game.

Pros

Relaxing and Meditative: The game has a calming effect and encourages a zen state.

Simple yet Strategic: Easy to learn but with enough depth for strategic thinking.

Quick Games: Games typically last between 10 to 15 minutes.

Beautiful Components: The cloth mat and wooden flowers create a visually appealing setup.

Cons

Scoring Disputes: Determining which player is closest to some flowers can be subjective and may require discussion.

Loose Rules: The lack of rigidity in the rules might frustrate players who prefer more structured gameplay.

Storage Issues: The game comes in a tube, which can be awkward for storage.

Personal Thoughts on Lacuna

Lacuna is ideal for players seeking a calming and intellectually stimulating experience. It is a great choice for those who enjoy abstract strategy games but also appreciate a relaxing atmosphere. The game’s design makes it accessible to a wide range of players, from families to experienced gamers looking for a light, yet engaging, game. While it may not be the best fit for players who prefer complex rules or intense competition, Lacuna’s unique blend of simplicity and strategy makes it a standout in the world of board games.

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