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Linkage (2009) Board Game

ByMichail

Linkage is an abstract strategy board game that was released in 2009 by designer Néstor Romeral Andrés. The game is designed for 2 players and has a runtime of about 10 minutes. The game features tile placement mechanics and is known for its simple yet strategic gameplay.

Game Components of Linkage

  • Board:** A 7×7 grid with the center square blacked out.
  • Pieces:** 24 domino-like pieces, 6 of each of 4 different colors, each covering exactly two cells.
  • Players:** Designed for two players.

    How To Setup Linkage

    To set up the game, start with an empty 7×7 board, excluding the central square which is blacked out. Both players have access to a shared pool of 24 pieces. The game begins with no pieces on the board, ready for the first player to make their move.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Turn Structure:** Players take turns placing one piece onto two unoccupied, adjacent cells of the board.
  • Objective:** The goal is to create a connected path of your color while blocking your opponent from doing the same.
  • Game Mechanics:** Area control, tile placement, and strategic planning.

    Player Experience

    Playing Linkage is an engaging and mentally stimulating experience. It requires careful planning and strategic thinking to outmaneuver your opponent. Each move can significantly impact the game, making it a game of tactical depth.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** Offers a challenging and intellectually stimulating experience.
  • Simple to Learn:** Easy to understand the rules, but hard to master.
  • Quick Games:** Games are typically short, making it a great filler game.
  • Colourful and Visual:** The use of different colors and domino-like pieces makes the game visually appealing.

    Cons

  • Limited Player Count:** Designed only for two players, which might limit its appeal for larger groups.
  • Repetitive:** Some players might find the gameplay repetitive after multiple sessions.

    Personal Thoughts on Linkage

    Linkage is ideal for fans of strategic board games and those who enjoy puzzles and spatial reasoning challenges. It is a great addition to any board game collection, especially for players who appreciate games that require careful planning and execution. However, it may not be the best choice for those looking for a game to play with a large group of friends.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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