Less: Like Chess but Less! (2015) Board Game

Less: Like Chess but Less! is an abstract strategy board game designed by Aleksandr Starovojtov and released in in 2015. The game is designed for 2-4 players and has a runtime of 2-30 minutes. The game features grid movement, a modular board, and is a team-based game.

Game Components of Less: Like Chess but Less!

9 board pieces

Game pieces (4 per player or 8 for a four-player game)

Additional tiles for four-player mode

How To Setup Less: Like Chess but Less!

Setting up the game is quick and straightforward. Place the nine board pieces randomly to create the playing field, and distribute the game pieces to each player. The entire setup process takes only seconds.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Move your four pieces to the opponent’s starting corner before they move theirs to yours.

Game Mechanics:
– Random board configuration with 2.8 trillion possible combinations
– Piece movement
– Cooperation in four-player mode, where partners work together to develop a common strategy
– Jumping over other pieces to advance

Player Experience

Less offers a fun, quick, and elegant gaming experience. The rules can be learned in less than a minute, and games typically last under 10 minutes. The game’s simplicity and minimalistic design make it appealing for those who enjoy a clean and easy-to-understand gameplay. In a four-player game, the dynamic shifts as players must work in pairs, adding a cooperative element to the strategy.

Pros

Easy to learn and set up

Quick gameplay

Infinite variations due to random board setup

Cooperative gameplay in four-player mode

Minimalistic and elegant design

Cons

Simple rules may not appeal to players seeking complex strategies

Limited depth compared to more intricate strategy games like chess

Personal Thoughts on Less: Like Chess but Less!

Less is ideal for those who enjoy simple, fast-paced strategy games without the complexity of traditional chess. It’s perfect for casual gaming sessions with friends or family, offering a quick and enjoyable experience that can be played in short intervals. The game’s ease of learning and cooperative aspects in four-player mode make it a great addition to any game collection, especially for those who value simplicity and quick gameplay.

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