Pentago XL (2005) Board Game

Pentago XL is an abstract strategy board game designed by Mårten Skoger and Joel Ydring and released in in 2005. It is a larger version of the original Pentago game, featuring a 9×9 board instead of the standard 6×6 board. The game is published by Mindtwister AB and Tactic, known for their high-quality strategy games.

Game Components of Pentago XL

1 Pentago XL game board

36 marbles (18 black, 18 white)

How To Setup Pentago XL

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player chooses a color and takes their corresponding marbles.

Players decide who goes first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

The objective of Pentago XL is to be the first player to get five of your marbles in a row, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. The twist in this game is that after placing a marble, players must rotate one of the four game blocks 90 degrees, changing the layout of the board.

Player Experience

Pros:

Easy to learn and quick to play, making it a great option for casual gamers.

The rotating board adds a unique strategic element to the game.

The larger board size in Pentago XL offers more room for complex patterns and gameplay.

Cons:

Limited player interaction beyond blocking opponents’ moves.

The game may lack depth for experienced strategy game players.

Personal Thoughts on Pentago XL

Pentago XL is a fun and engaging abstract strategy game that offers a unique twist on the classic five-in-a-row concept. The larger board size and rotating blocks add an interesting strategic layer to the gameplay, keeping it fresh and challenging. While it may not be the most complex or deep strategy game out there, Pentago XL is a great choice for casual gamers looking for a quick and enjoyable gaming experience. The build quality of the game is solid, and the pricing for both new and used versions is reasonable. Overall, Pentago XL is worth your time if you enjoy abstract strategy games and are looking for a fun and accessible option to add to your collection. It is recommended for players aged 8 and up, and while it may not be the best choice for hardcore strategy gamers, it is a great option for families and casual gamers.

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