tak•tak (2015) Board Game – Board Game Guys

tak•tak is an abstract strategy board game designed by Rich Zeglovitch and published by Educa Korea in in 2015. The game is designed for 2 players and has a runtime of 20-40 minutes. It falls under the category of abstract strategy games and features grid movement as its main mechanism.

Game Components of Tak

Board: Various sizes (4×4, 5×5, 6×6, 7×7, 8×8)

Pieces:

Stones: Varying numbers depending on the board size (e.g., 15 for 4×4, 30 for 6×6)

Capstones: 0 to 2, depending on the board size

Players: 2

How To Setup Tak

To set up Tak, place the board in the middle of the playing area. Each player starts with a specific number of stones and capstones, which are placed beside the board. The exact number depends on the board size:

4×4 Board: 15 stones, 0 capstones per player

5×5 Board: 21 stones, 1 capstone per player

6×6 Board: 30 stones, 1 capstone per player

7×7 Board: 40 stones, 2 capstones per player

8×8 Board: 50 stones, 2 capstones per player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn-Based: Players alternate turns with no option to pass.

Orthogonal Movement: Pieces move only horizontally or vertically.

Stacking: Stones can be stacked to create taller piles.

Capstones: Capstones are special stones that cannot be moved by the opponent.

Road Building: The primary objective is to build a “road” of connected stones from one edge of the board to the opposite edge.

Blocking and Control: Players use stones and capstones to block opponents and control key areas on the board.

Player Experience

Playing Tak is a strategic and engaging experience. The game requires a mix of short-term tactical thinking and long-term strategic planning. Players must balance the need to build their road with the necessity of blocking their opponent’s attempts. The stacking mechanic adds a physical aspect to the game, as players need to manage the stability of their stone piles. This blend of abstract strategy and dexterity makes Tak appealing to fans of chess, Go, and other strategy games.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Despite simple rules, Tak offers complex and layered strategies.

Physical Aspect: The stacking of stones adds a unique dexterity element.

Quick Games: Games can be relatively short, with the potential for early excitement and threats.

High Replayability: Different board sizes and setups ensure a varied experience each time.

Cons

Learning Curve: While the rules are simple, mastering the game takes time and practice.

Tied Games: There is a possibility of tied games, especially in tournament play.

Component Management: Managing the stability of stone piles can be frustrating at times.

Personal Thoughts on Tak

Tak is ideal for fans of abstract strategy games who appreciate both mental challenge and physical interaction. It is a great choice for those looking for a game that is easy to learn but difficult to master. The game’s beauty lies in its simplicity and the depth of strategy it offers, making it a timeless addition to any board game collection. If you enjoy games like chess, Go, or backgammon, you will likely find Tak to be a compelling and beautiful game to play.

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