Mini Mastermind

Chieftain Products, Clipper, Dourios · Board game · 1972
2 · best 2 10 min Weight 1.8/5
rating Ludopedia
5.8 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
5.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love quick logic duels, Mini Mastermind is your new best buddy.

Highlights
  • Deduction in 6 guesses
  • Fast and portable
  • Short mental challenge
Keep in mind
  • 6 guess limit
  • Only 2 players
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About the game
Mini Mastermind is the travel version of the classic Mastermind, but with six guess rows instead of the usual ten. One player creates a 4‑color code from six possible colors, and the other tries to crack it in up to six attempts. After each guess the code‑maker gives feedback: black pegs for correct color in the right spot, white pegs for correct color in the wrong spot. When someone breaks the code or runs out of guesses, the roles switch. The winner is usually the one who solves it in the fewest attempts. The game comes in a 2"×5" plastic box with a board cover, all neatly stored. It’s quick—about ten minutes—and perfect for two‑player deduction battles. The deduction mechanic keeps the brain busy, while the limited attempts add tension. It’s ideal for fans of abstract strategy and deduction games, no big components or setup time required. If you want a mental showdown in a few minutes, Mini Mastermind is the pick.

The game is easy to set up: just pop the pieces out of the box and start playing. The goal is simple—figure out the code in no more than six guesses. Each black peg means a color and position are correct, each white peg means a correct color in the wrong spot. Switching roles keeps the game balanced and gives both players a chance to use the same strategy. The theme is minimal, but the fun comes from the clue exchanges and the race against the limited attempts.

Mini Mastermind is an abstract strategy game that tests your logic. If you enjoy deduction and reasoning, you’ll have a blast. The clue‑giving mechanic is simple, but the tension of cracking the code in a few guesses is intense. It’s a great travel game, small and no‑setup, perfect for home or on the go. If you’re looking for something quick, fun, and mentally challenging, Mini Mastermind is the way to go.

In short, Mini Mastermind is the portable version of the classic, keeping the deduction fun and tension in a compact, easy‑to‑use format. Great for anyone wanting a quick, abstract strategy game that challenges logic in two‑player mode.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
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Game details

Mechanics

Families

Game: Mastermind Mechanism: Give a Clue / Get a Clue Players: Two-Player Only Games Promotional: Board Games
Publisher Chieftain Products, Clipper, Dourios, Grow Jogos e Brinquedos, Hasbro, Henry Higgins Promotions, Invicta Games, Krajowa Agencja Wydawnicza, Parker Brothers, Pressman Toy Corp., Singapore Airlines, Waddingtons
Designer Mordecai Meirowitz
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical game duration?
On average, each session lasts about 10 minutes, since there are only six guess rows.
How many players can play?
The game is designed exclusively for two players: a code‑maker and a code‑breaker.
How complex is the game?
It’s very straightforward, with clear rules and a direct deduction mechanic. Great for both beginners and veterans.
What components come with the game?
It includes a small board, colored pegs (black and white), and a rule sheet—all housed in a 2"×5" box.
Who is the game intended for?
Ideal for fans of abstract strategy and deduction who want a quick, portable challenge.
Are there any rule variations?
No official variants; the rules are the same as classic Mastermind, just with fewer guess rows.
Can I play with more than two players?
No, the mechanics are tailored for two players and don’t scale well to larger groups.