Plateau (1986)

About this game

Each playing piece has colored rings attached to its top and bottom faces; the color of the ring that's showing indicates how the piece moves. At the start of your move, you can flip the top piece in a stack over, changing how that piece moves. And your opponent isn't allowed to look underneath your pieces to see what might be there. With this significant bluffing aspect, tied to the transformation of units, as well as two very different ways to win, Plateau is a unique abstract strategy game. Online Play Boardspace.net (real-time or turn based) GamesByEmail.com (turn-based) Mobile Apps Boardspace.net local multiplayer or online, IOS Boardspace.net local multiplayer or online, Android

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 2.7/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 8 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.