Linja (2003) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Linja is an abstract strategy game designed by Steffen Mühlhäuser and released in in 2003. It is a two-player game that is easy to learn but offers strategic depth for experienced players. The game has received praise for its elegant design and challenging gameplay.

Game Components of Linja

24 wooden playing pieces (12 black and 12 red) shaped like hour-glasses

7 short bamboo rods to create the playing field.

How To Setup Linja

To set up Linja, place the seven bamboo rods in parallel alignment on a flat surface. Each player starts with six pawns in their base and one pawn in each of the six spaces between the bases. The remaining pawns are placed one each in the gaps between the bamboo rods, creating a grid-like setup.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Move your pawns from your side of the board to your opponent’s side or as close to it as possible.

Turn Structure: A player’s turn consists of two moves. The first move involves advancing one pawn one space towards the opponent’s base. The second move allows the player to advance any of their pawns a number of spaces equal to the total number of pawns (both colors) in the space where the first pawn landed.

Scoring: The game ends when all pawns have completely passed each other. Points are awarded based on the final position of the pawns: 5 points for each pawn on the opponent’s goal row, and decreasing points for pawns on rows closer to the opponent’s side.

Player Experience

Linja is praised for its simplicity and strategic depth. The game is easy to learn but requires careful planning to balance advancing pawns and keeping some back to control key spaces. The tactile nature of the wooden pawns and bamboo rods adds to the game’s appeal, making it a pleasant and engaging experience. However, the game’s short playing time and simple rules might limit its ability to keep players immersed for extended periods.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to players of various skill levels.

Strategic Depth: Requires planning and strategy to manage pawn movement effectively.

Tactile Experience: High-quality wooden pawns and bamboo rods enhance gameplay.

Quick Setup and Play: Ideal as a filler game due to its short setup and playing time.

Cons

Limited Complexity: The simplicity of the game might make it less engaging for some players.

Short Playing Time: Games are relatively short, lasting about 15 minutes.

Homemade Alternative: The game can be replicated with basic materials, which might reduce the urge to purchase the official version.

Personal Thoughts on Linja

Linja is perfect for those looking for a quick, strategic game that doesn’t overwhelm with complex rules. It’s a great choice for couples or friends who enjoy abstract strategy games but need something that can be played in a short amount of time. While it may not offer the depth of games like Hive or Quoridor, Linja’s elegance and simplicity make it a delightful addition to any board game collection.

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