Tank Chess (2016) Board Game

Tank Chess is an abstract strategy board game that was released in 2016 by Forsage Games. Designed by Dragan Lazovic and Predrag Lazovic, this game is designed for two players and is suitable for ages 10 and up. With a playing time of 10–50 minutes, Tank Chess is known for its unique gameplay mechanics and strategic depth.

Game Components of Tank Chess

Box Dimensions: Vary by edition (e.g., Light edition: 20 x 24 x 3 cm, Standard: 24 x 24 x 4 cm, Pocket: 11 x 13 x 2.5 cm)

Boards: 2 double-sided boards (47 x 47 cm and 38 x 38 cm for Standard and Light, 21 x 21 cm and 26 x 26 cm for Pocket)

Tank Pieces: 30 pieces including Light, Medium, and Heavy Tanks, Tank Destroyers, and Heavy Mortars

Flags/Antennas: 30 flags/antennas

Obstacles: 26 obstacles

Border Surfaces: 4 border surfaces

Reference Sheets: 2 reference sheets

Additional Items: Notepad, blank scheme pad, rules, and brochure

How To Setup Tank Chess

To set up Tank Chess, players start by placing the board on a flat surface. Each player selects their forces, which include a Command Tank, various types of tanks, tank destroyers, and heavy mortars. The tanks and other pieces are placed on the board according to the initial setup rules. Obstacles are also placed on the board to create a challenging terrain. The game is ready to start once all pieces and obstacles are in their designated positions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Destroy the opponent’s Command Tank or ensure a sneaky escape of your own Command Tank

Strategic Planning: Meticulous planning and execution of maneuvers similar to chess

Long Range Engagements: Consideration of firepower and armor protection in long-range battles

Obstacles: Use of obstacles to prevent shooting across the board and create tactical opportunities

Destroyed Vehicles: Remaining on the board to affect future moves and strategies

Player Experience

Tank Chess offers a deep and engaging experience for players who enjoy strategic games. It requires careful planning and execution, making each move a crucial decision. The presence of obstacles and the enduring nature of destroyed vehicles add layers of complexity, forcing players to think several steps ahead.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Encourages masterful strategic planning and decision-making.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and board configurations ensure high replay value.

Portable: Available in a pocket edition for travel.

Thematic Depth: Combines elements of military strategy with the abstract nature of chess.

Cons

Complexity: May be overwhelming for casual gamers due to its deep strategic requirements.

Setup Time: Initial setup can be time-consuming.

Space Requirements: The larger boards and numerous pieces require significant space.

Personal Thoughts on Tank Chess

Tank Chess is ideal for those who enjoy complex, strategic games and are fans of military themes. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate the depth and challenge of chess but are looking for a fresh twist. The game’s various editions, including the pocket version, make it accessible for both home play and travel, catering to a wide range of players with different preferences and needs.

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