MeM (1968)

About this game

from the rules: Equipment A board with 32 indented spaces 32 stones of 11 colours (8+7+3+3+2+2+2+2+1+1+1) Two rules booklets. To Start At the start of the game, the 32 stones are spread randomly over the board surface so that all spaces are filled. The board is set between the players, leaving a space in front of each player. For MEM-Solitaire, you need only one playing space and the filled board. The General Idea You take stones from the MEM board, and use them to build patterns of stones in your playing area. The pattern of stones in your playing area must always "match" some group of stones remaining on the board. In two-person play, your opponent will try to take stones that make it easy for him to build matching patterns, and make it hard for you to find good matches on the board. The player with the most stones wins.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 1 to 2. It has a designed solo mode.
• Rules load. At 3.6/5 this is a heavy game — read the rulebook before people arrive.
• Age. The publisher suggests 10 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.