Onager / Vault

Onager / Vault

Kanare_Abstract · Board game · 2026
2 · best 2 30 min
rating Ludopedia
rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy a good abstract duel for two, with simple rules but plenty of strategy, Onager is for you! The jumping mechanic is brilliant and makes you think about every move.

Highlights
  • Tactical movement with jumps
  • Surprising strategic depth
  • Two experiences in one board
  • Accessible rules, deep gameplay
Keep in mind
  • Purely abstract game
  • Two-player only
  • Initial learning curve
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Get ready for a strategic showdown worthy of the ancient Romans with Onager! Inspired by siege engines of the past, this game pits you and your opponent in a tactical duel where the goal is to be the first to advance your pieces into the enemy's back row. The clever twist here is the smart use of jumps, allowing your units to leap over longer distances by using friendly pieces as pivot points. Mastering long jumps and consecutive jump sequences is the key to victory. It's one of those abstract games that makes you think about every move, perfect for those who enjoy a pure mental challenge.

And there's more! On the reverse side of the board, you'll find Vault, a variation that uses the same mechanics but on a square board. This means you get two tactical experiences in one package, each with its own challenges and nuances. Onager is a gem from Néstor Romeral Andrés, a designer with a massive portfolio of abstract games, proving that simple rules can hide incredible strategic depth. If you enjoy abstract games focused on movement and positioning, where every piece counts and strategy is everything, Onager and Vault are sure bets for your collection.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
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Game details

Categories

Families

Category: Combinatorial Components: 10 x 10 Grids Components: Cloth Boards Components: HexHex6 Grids Players: Two-Player Only Games
Publisher Kanare_Abstract
Designer Néstor Romeral Andrés
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play?
Onager is designed for duels, so it's exclusively a two-player game.
How long does a game take?
Games are quite fast, typically around 30 minutes, perfect for a quick challenge.
What is the game's complexity?
The rules are easy to learn, but mastering the strategy of jumps and positioning takes practice. It's an abstract game with depth.
Does it come with a cloth board?
Yes, the game includes a cloth board, making it convenient to store and play.
What is the 'Vault' game that comes with it?
Vault is a version of Onager played on the reverse side of the board, which is square. It uses the same jumping mechanics but on a different grid, offering an interesting variation.
Is this a themed game?
No, Onager is an abstract strategy game. The Roman siege theme is more of an inspiration for the jumping mechanic than a central gameplay element.