Nonaga (2017) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Nonaga is an abstract strategy game designed by Víktor Bautista i Roca and published by Steffen-Spiele in in 2017. The game is known for its unique gameplay mechanics involving area movement and pattern building, making it a challenging and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Nonaga

Hexagonal Playing Area: Composed of 19 rings.

Player Pieces: Each player has three colored pieces.

Board Tiles: Interchangeable tiles that make up the playing board.

Materials: Wooden components, known for their chunky and pleasant feel.

How To Setup Nonaga

To set up Nonaga, players arrange the 19-ring hexagonal board and place their three colored pieces in alternating vertices around the board. This simple setup ensures a quick start to the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Players take turns moving one of their pieces in a straight line until it hits the edge of the board or another piece.

Board Adjustment: After moving a piece, a player can move one of the board tiles to a new position.

Winning Condition: The game is won when a player’s three pieces are adjacent, either in a straight line or in a triangle.

Zero Luck: The game is purely tactical, with no element of luck involved.

Player Experience

Nonaga is a fast-paced game, often lasting around 10-15 minutes. The gameplay is straightforward, with minimal components and easy-to-understand rules. However, the game’s depth is somewhat limited, which can affect its replay value. The absence of complex strategies means that players can quickly grasp the optimal moves, reducing the element of surprise over time.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: Games are short and engaging.

Simple Rules: Easy to learn and understand.

Aesthetic Design: Minimalistic and visually appealing with well-made wooden components.

No Downtime: Constant back-and-forth action between players.

Cons

Limited Depth: The game lacks complex strategies, making it less engaging for some players.

Low Replayability: Once the optimal moves are understood, the game may become less captivating.

No Scalability: Designed exclusively for two players.

Personal Thoughts on Nonaga

Nonaga is ideal for those who enjoy quick, tactical games without the need for deep strategic planning. It’s perfect for a casual, short gaming session and is particularly suited for players who appreciate abstract games with a minimalist design. However, players seeking a game with high replayability or complex strategies might find Nonaga a bit too simplistic.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.