Traffic Lights (1985) Board Game

Traffic Lights is an abstract strategy board game that was released in in 1985. It was designed by Alan Parr and features artwork by Fiendish Board Games, LuduScience, and World Game Review. The game is best played with 2 players and has a quick runtime of around 10 minutes. It falls under the category of abstract strategy games and utilizes tile placement as its main mechanism.

Game Components of Traffic Lights

Board: A 3×3 squared grid, similar to a tic-tac-toe board.

Counters: 6 red, 6 orange, and 6 green counters.

Players: 2 players.

How To Setup Traffic Lights

To set up the game, place the 3×3 grid in the middle, and ensure each player has access to the red, orange, and green counters. The grid starts empty, ready for the first player to place a red counter.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: The goal is to be the first player to complete a line (row, column, or diagonal) of three counters of the same color.

Turn Actions:
– Place a red counter in an empty square.
– Replace a red counter with an orange one.
– Replace an orange counter with a green one.

Win Condition: The third counter in a line determines the winner, regardless of who placed the first counters in that line.

Player Experience

Traffic Lights is a game that requires concentration and forward thinking. Players need to strategize two or three moves ahead to outmaneuver their opponent. The game is engaging and can be intense, as each move can significantly impact the outcome. It is particularly suitable for classrooms to develop logical thinking and strategic skills.

Pros

Develops Strategic Thinking: Encourages players to think ahead.

Engaging: Keeps players focused and competitive.

Simple Setup: Easy to understand and set up.

Educational: Useful in classrooms for teaching strategy and logical thinking.

Cons

Limited Complexity: The game mechanics, while strategic, are relatively simple.

Short Games: Matches can be quite short, especially as players become more experienced.

Personal Thoughts on Traffic Lights

Traffic Lights is an excellent game for those who enjoy strategic thinking and quick, competitive matches. It is particularly beneficial in educational settings to enhance logical reasoning and planning skills. The game’s simplicity makes it accessible to a wide range of players, while its depth ensures it remains challenging and engaging. It’s a great addition to any board game collection for those who appreciate tactical gameplay.

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