Tako Judo (2007) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Tako Judo is a board game released in 2007 by Blue Panther. It is an abstract strategy game that combines elements of animals, fighting, and nautical themes. Players take on the role of octopuses competing in a judo tournament, using their tentacles to outmaneuver their opponents. The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, with a recommended age of 10 and up.

Game Components of Tako Judo

100% wooden components: Everything, including the octopus heads and their eight arms, is etched out of wood.

Octopus pieces: Each player has one octopus head and eight tentacles, each tentacle being an upraised piece of wood with a picture on both sides, standing on a small colored disc.

Board: Composed of four pieces that form an 8×8 grid (9×9 for four players), resembling a checkerboard.

Box: Distinguished looking box with what appears to be a cartoon Cthulu on it.

How To Setup Tako Judo

The game is set up on an 8×8 grid (or 9×9 for four players). Each player places the head of their octopus, which takes up four squares, surrounded by the eight tentacles. The youngest player goes first, and play proceeds clockwise around the table.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: The goal is to immobilize your opponent’s octopus by preventing any of its pieces from moving.

Movement: All pieces, including the octopus head, move like a chess queen.

Tentacle Movement: Tentacles are mobile only when they have a clear line of sight back to their octopus head.

Winning Condition: The first player who cannot move any of their pieces loses the game. In a four-player game, players are on teams and must “pin” both of the opponent’s octopi.

Player Experience

Tako Judo is a game that requires forward planning and strategic thinking. Players must send out their tentacles quickly to secure maneuvering room later in the game. It is crucial to keep the octopus head mobile by aligning it with the tentacles. The game rewards offensive play, as defensive moves can lead to a quick defeat. The two-player version is generally quicker and more fun, while the four-player version can feel crowded and chaotic.

Pros

Unique Components: The laser-etched wooden pieces are visually appealing and add to the game’s theme.

Simple Rules: The game has very simple rules, making it easy to learn but challenging to master.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to think several moves ahead, appealing to those who enjoy complex strategies.

Cons

Complex Strategy: The game can be too deep for some players, requiring a high level of strategic thinking.

Slow Victory: Games can end with one player experiencing a slow, strangulated defeat rather than a dramatic turnaround.

Crowded Gameplay: The four-player version can feel crowded and chaotic compared to the two-player game.

Personal Thoughts on Tako Judo

Tako Judo is ideal for players who enjoy abstract strategy games and are looking for a unique gaming experience. It appeals to those who like thinking several moves ahead and appreciate the challenge of complex strategic play. While it may not become a classic, it offers a different feel that sets it apart from other board games. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer quicker, more straightforward games or who find deep strategic thinking overwhelming.

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