Palago (2008) – Board Game Guys

Palago

Palago is a creative art puzzle/game designed by Cameron Browne.

Why is Palago Popular?

Palago is a unique and engaging game that combines art and strategy. The game is popular due to its:
– Simplicity: The game is easy to learn and understand, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.
– Creativity: Palago encourages players to use their artistic flair and strategic thinking to create visually appealing and effective patterns.
– Versatility: The game can be played on any flat surface and with any number of tiles, making it adaptable to various situations and environments.

Game Components of Palago

48 identical regular hexagonal tiles: Each tile contains a straight and a circular tip of each color (white and blue).

Two specially designed “Palago” dice: Used in the multiplayer version, Palagonia.

How To Setup Palago

To set up Palago, players start by choosing a color. Each player then draws a tile to determine who goes first, although this has no significance in the gameplay. The first player places two tiles in the middle, ensuring both colors match. This sets the stage for the subsequent turns where players add two tiles each, adhering to the basic rules of tile placement.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Tile Placement: Players place two tiles per turn, ensuring at least one tile connects to the existing pattern and that all touching edge colors match.

Pattern Building: The objective is to form a closed shape (creature) in your color, with the creature needing to include at least one straight tip.

Winning Conditions: The game is won by the player who forms a closed creature with more than three tiles of their color. If a move completes winning creatures for both players, the mover loses.

Drawing Tiles: If the tiles run out before either player wins, the game is a draw, unless an optional tiebreaker rule is used to decide the winner based on the largest incomplete creature.

Player Experience

Palago offers a dynamic and strategic gameplay experience, balancing attacking and defending strategies. Early in the game, it is often wise to defend without counter-attacking, as each attack can deteriorate a player’s overall position. The game requires careful planning and visualization, especially against experienced opponents. The multiplayer version, Palagonia, adds a cooperative element, where players work together to form high-scoring creatures.

Pros

Deep Strategic Depth: Palago requires a mix of short-term tactical thinking and long-term strategic planning.

Visual Appeal: The hexagonal tiles and the creatures formed are aesthetically pleasing and engaging.

Replayability: With over a quadrillion possible creatures, the game offers immense replay value.

Multiplayer Options: Includes a cooperative multiplayer version, Palagonia, designed by Cameron Browne and Mike McManaway.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s rules and strategies can be complex for new players.

Draw Frequency: Games can end in a draw if tiles run out before a winner is determined, though this is unlikely with 48 tiles.

Limited Player Count: Primarily designed for two players, though there is a cooperative multiplayer version.

Personal Thoughts on Palago

Palago is ideal for fans of abstract strategy and tile placement games. It is a game that rewards careful planning, strategic thinking, and a bit of artistic flair. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity, it is a gem for those who enjoy deep, thought-provoking gameplay. The cooperative element in Palagonia adds a social dimension, making it a great option for gamers looking to engage in a collaborative challenge.

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.