# Edgecut

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2026
- **BGG Rating**: —
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 2
- **Duration**: 20-60 min
- **Weight**: —
- **Designers**: Mark Steere
- **Publishers**: Mark Steere Games
- **Categories**: Abstract Strategy
- **Mechanics**: Chaining, Connections, Pattern Building, Pattern Recognition, Square Grid

## Verdict
If you enjoy a good abstract puzzle and love brainy duels, Edgecut is an excellent choice to test your mind!Intense abstract duelUnique swap mechanicWin on opponent's turnStrategic depthEasy to learnTwo players onlyRequires tactical thinkingMight be too abstractRECOMMENDED

## Description
Get ready for a brainy duel in Edgecut, an abstract connection game that challenges you to link the board's edges! Played on a square Kōnane-style board, initially filled with black and white stones in a checkerboard pattern, your goal is simple: the Black player must create an interconnected path of black stones linking the two black edges of the board, while the White player must do the same with the white edges. The twist? You can win on your turn or your opponent's turn, which keeps the tension high!

On your turn, you and your opponent take turns swapping orthogonally adjacent pairs of stones. But it's not just any swap! First, you need to identify a 'crosscut': a 2x2 area containing two diagonally adjacent black stones and two diagonally adjacent white stones. Within that crosscut, you select the orthogonal pair that is closest to the board edge in a direction perpendicular to the pair. If there's a tie, you choose which pair to move. It's an elegant system that forces you to think several moves ahead, anticipating your opponent's moves and looking for opportunities to form your connections while blocking theirs. Edgecut is one of those games that seem simple on the surface but reveal surprising strategic depth as you play.

## FAQ
### What is the main objective in Edgecut?
The goal is to be the first to create a continuous path of your stones that connects the two edges of the board matching your color.

### How many players can play Edgecut?
Edgecut is exclusively a two-player game, perfect for one-on-one duels.

### What is the average game duration?
A game of Edgecut typically lasts between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on the strategic depth of the players.

### What is the complexity of the game?
Despite simple rules, Edgecut offers considerable strategic depth, requiring planning and anticipation of the opponent's moves. It's easy to learn but challenging to master.

### What is a 'crosscut' and why is it important?
A 'crosscut' is a 2x2 area on the board with diagonally opposite stones. It's crucial because it defines where you can perform your stone swaps, forming the basis of the movement mechanic.

### Is there any luck involved in Edgecut?
No, Edgecut is a pure abstract strategy game. There are no luck elements, only tactical and logical decisions by the players.

### Who is Edgecut best suited for?
It's ideal for fans of abstract games like Chess and Checkers, who are looking for a tactical challenge and enjoy thinking several moves ahead in a direct duel.