Polarity (1986) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Polarity is a board game that was first released in in 1986. It is a game that focuses on stacking and balancing magnetic pieces to create structures. The game is designed by Blue Opal, EKOS, Ekos-USA, Inc., and Ferti. It falls under the category of Abstract Strategy and Action/Dexterity games, where players need to have a steady hand and strategic thinking to win.

Game Components of Polarity

Magnetic discs with one side white and the other black (north and south respectively)

A neutral central disc colored red

A playing board

A canvas sleeve for storage

A paper rulebook.

How To Setup Polarity

To set up the game, one player tosses the central red disc to determine which player plays with which color/magnetic polarity. Each player then lays five ‘foundation discs’ of their color, starting with the white player. These discs must be placed inside the external circle of the playing area and not touch the red disc.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Gain points by forming towers of discs.

Gameplay Mechanics:
– Players place discs within the playing area, balancing them on the magnetic fields of preceding pieces.
– Discs can be placed as ‘leaners’ to disrupt the current layout, causing faults that end a player’s turn.
– Faults can result in pieces touching, allowing the opposing player to capture them by forming towers.
– Intentional faults can be used to make gameplay easier.
– The game ends when a player exhausts their supply of pieces or a piece touches the center red disc.
– Points are scored based on the number of pieces in towers and the pieces remaining in the opponent’s hand.

Player Experience

Polarity is a game that requires patience, skill, and a steady hand. It starts off relatively simple but becomes increasingly challenging as the board becomes crowded and the magnetic fields interact in complex ways. Players must balance risk and reward, setting up traps and building towers while avoiding giving their opponent scoring opportunities. The game’s unique mechanics make it both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: The game’s use of magnetic discs creates a unique and engaging gameplay experience.

Strategic Depth: Despite simple rules, the game offers complex gameplay and strategic choices.

Dexterity Challenge: Requires a steady hand and patience, making it a fun dexterity game.

Social Interaction: Encourages strategic thinking and interaction between players.

Cons

Learning Curve: Takes a few tries to get the hang of the rules and mechanics.

Lengthy Games: Not a quick game, requiring a significant amount of time to play.

Risk of Frustration: Faults and unintended movements can be frustrating, especially for new players.

Personal Thoughts on Polarity

Polarity is a game that is perfect for those who enjoy dexterity games and are looking for something different from the average board game. It is ideal for players who appreciate strategic thinking and physical skill challenges. While it may not be the best fit for younger children due to the complexity and dexterity required, it is a great addition to any board game collection for those who enjoy a mix of strategy and physical challenge. If you’re considering it for Christmas, it’s a great way to add some unique fun to your family gatherings.

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