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Take it Easy! (1983) Board Game

ByMichail

Take it Easy! is an abstract strategy board game designed by Peter Burley and first released in in 1983. It has since become a popular game in the puzzle genre, known for its simple rules but challenging gameplay. The game has been published by Burley Games and has seen several editions and versions over the years.

Game Components of Take it Easy!

  • Boards:** Each player has a hexagon-shaped board with 19 hexagonal cells.
  • Tiles:** 27 hexagonal tiles per player, each featuring colored lines and numbers in a triple-cross configuration.
  • Caller Role:** One player acts as the caller, drawing and announcing tiles.
  • Special Tiles (Daffodil Edition):** Includes wild card tiles with flexible path values.

    How To Setup Take it Easy!

    To set up the game, each player takes a board and a set of 27 tiles. The tiles have different combinations of colored/numbered paths. One player is designated as the caller, who draws tiles randomly and announces them to the other players.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Tile Selection:** The caller draws a tile and announces its configuration (e.g., “5-7-4”).
  • Placement:** Players place the announced tile on their board, ensuring numbers remain upright.
  • Objective:** Complete continuous lines of the same number across the board.
  • Scoring:** Score based on the product of the number on the tiles and the number of tiles in a completed line.
  • Rounds:** The game consists of four rounds, with the caller duty rotating among players.

    Player Experience

    Take it Easy maintains constant engagement as each tile call requires immediate decision-making, keeping all players involved from start to finish. The game’s scalability allows it to be played with any number of players, making it suitable for both small groups and large gatherings.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** Combines luck and strategy, offering a unique gaming experience.
  • Accessibility:** Simple rules but complex strategic placement.
  • Engagement:** Keeps players constantly involved.
  • Scalability:** Can be played with 1 to 8 players.
  • Awards and Recognition:** Nominated for several awards, including the Deutscher Spielepreis and Spiel des Jahres.

    Cons

  • Luck Element:** Random tile draws can affect strategy.
  • Board Limitations:** Each player needs their own set of tiles and board.
  • Complex Scoring:** Calculating scores can be intricate.

    Personal Thoughts on Take it Easy!

    Take it Easy is an excellent choice for gamers of all ages and skill levels. It offers a refreshing blend of strategic depth and accessibility, making it a great addition to any game collection. Whether you’re looking for a game to enjoy with a small group or a large gathering, Take it Easy promises a fun and engaging experience that will keep you strategizing and anticipating each new tile call. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy puzzle-solving and planning, and it stands out for its unique combination of luck and strategic decision-making.

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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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