Lines of Action (1969) – Board Game Guys

Lines of Action

Lines of Action (LOA) is an abstract strategy board game for two players invented by Claude Soucie in 1969. The game was included in Sid Sackson’s book “A Gamut of Games” in the same year. The objective of the game is to connect all of one’s pieces into a single group.

Why is Lines of Action Popular?

LOA is a popular game among abstract strategy board game enthusiasts. It has been recommended by the Spiel des Jahres in 1988, and it is considered a classic game. The game is significant because it is easy to learn, but it has a high level of strategic depth.

Game Components of Lines of Action

Board: An 8×8 standard checkerboard.

Pieces: 12 checkers or pieces for each player, typically colored black and white.

Players: Two players, Black and White.

How To Setup Lines of Action

The game starts with each player placing their 12 pieces on the board. Black pieces are placed in two rows along the top and bottom edges of the board, while White pieces are placed in two rows along the left and right edges of the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement: Pieces move horizontally, vertically, or diagonally exactly the number of squares equal to the total number of pieces (friendly and enemy) on the line of movement.

Capture: A piece can capture an opponent’s piece by landing on it, but it cannot jump over an opponent’s piece. It can, however, jump over its own pieces.

Objective: The goal is to connect all of one’s pieces into a single contiguous group, where pieces are adjacent either orthogonally or diagonally.

Player Experience

Lines of Action is a game of strategic depth and simplicity. Players must balance the need to connect their pieces with the risk of capturing opponent pieces, which can sometimes make it easier for the opponent to form their own connected group. The game requires careful planning and a keen understanding of spatial relationships on the board.

Pros

Simple yet Complex: The rules are easy to learn, but the game offers deep strategic complexity.

High Replayability: Each game presents unique challenges and opportunities.

Competitive Scene: Lines of Action has a dedicated tournament scene, including the Mind Sports Olympiad and the Computer Olympiad.

Accessible: Can be played with a standard checkerboard and checkers, making it easy to set up and play.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve for Optimal Play: While the rules are simple, mastering the game requires a lot of practice and strategic thinking.

Lengthy Games: Games can be lengthy as players meticulously plan their moves.

Draws: The game can end in a draw if the same position is repeated three times, which might be frustrating for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Lines of Action

Lines of Action is a game for those who enjoy abstract strategy and are willing to invest time in mastering its nuances. It is ideal for players who appreciate games like Chess or Go, where strategy and foresight are crucial. The game’s simplicity in setup and rules, combined with its deep strategic complexity, make it a compelling choice for both casual and serious gamers. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking quick, light-hearted games, as it demands careful consideration and planning.

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