Proteus (2001)

About this game

Taken from the website: From the folks who brought you Knightmare Chess comes Proteus - a dice game that plays a little like chess and a lot like nothing you've ever seen before! Played on a standard chess board, each side gets 8 dice, with a different piece on each face. You start with 8 pawns, but each turn you get to change one of your dice to a more powerful piece. But as your pieces get more powerful, they become worth more points to your opponent! The game is easy to learn, but mastering the intricate strategies will prove much harder.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 3.2/5 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.