Octego (2007)

About this game

Octego (pronounced "ok-TEE-go") is as easy to play as Checkers but as challenging as Chess. It's a two-player strategy game that combines the best elements of both these classics on a uniquely designed game board. Each player begins with eighteen pieces: two "Octego pieces", and sixteen other pieces that may move one, two, or three spaces per turn, depending on how each is labeled. Players must either capture both Octego pieces from the opponent or move one of his or her own Octego pieces to the opposite side of the board. The real challenge comes from playing on a board that is actually two separate grids of spaces. Pieces on one grid may not interact with pieces on the other, although pieces may at times change grids. This allows players to try two different strategies at the same time! Octego can be learned in just a few minutes, but you'll have years of fun trying to master it!

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 1.9/5 this is a light game — explain it in a few minutes, good for a table that has not played much.
• Age. The publisher suggests 7 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.