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Tak

Cheapass Games, Greater Than Games, LLC, James Ernest Games · Board game · 2017
2 · best 2 20–60 min Weight 2.4/5
7.9 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Buy
7.9 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Buy
Our Verdict

If you enjoy a good abstract challenge for two, Tak is a gem! It's the kind of game that grabs you with its simplicity and keeps you thinking for hours. Perfect for lovers of pure strategy and matches that never repeat.

Highlights
  • Elegant simple rules
  • Immense strategic depth
  • Unique and dynamic games
  • Excellent for mental duels
Keep in mind
  • Requires full concentration
  • Can be challenging initially
  • Two-player only
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Tak is one of those games that hook you with simple rules but keep you engaged with strategic depth. Created by the master Pat Rothfuss (yes, the author of 'The Name of the Wind'!), this abstract two-player game challenges you to build a bridge, a 'road,' with your pieces, connecting two opposite sides of the board. It's like chess with a touch of 'route building.'

Pieces can be played flat as 'flat stones,' allowing other pieces to be stacked on top, or stood on end as 'standing stones' or 'walls,' which prevent building on them but don't count towards your road. And if you have the luck (or strategy!), you can use 'capstones,' special pieces that act as both walls and flat stones, and can even flatten enemy walls. The beauty of Tak lies in its elegance: few rules, but a universe of tactical possibilities. Each game is a new puzzle, where creativity and foresight are your best weapons. Perfect for those who enjoy a good mental duel, no-nonsense, and with plenty of depth.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
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Game details

Mechanics

Grid Movement Network and Route Building Square Grid

Categories

Abstract Strategy

Families

Books: The Kingkiller Chronicle Category: Combinatorial Components: 4 x 4 Grids Components: 5 x 5 Grids Components: 6 x 6 Grids Components: 8 x 8 Grids Components: Cloth Boards Components: Wooden pieces & boards Containers: Drawstring Bag Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Ai Ai Mechanism: Connection Players: Two-Player Only Games Theme: Fictional Games
Publisher Cheapass Games, Greater Than Games, LLC, James Ernest Games, Maldito Games, Wyrmwood Gaming
Designer James Ernest, Patrick Rothfuss
Artist Echo Chernik, Sarah Kelly
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play Tak?
Tak is strictly a two-player game. It's a strategic duel where direct interaction is key.
How long does a game of Tak take?
Tak games are usually quick, ranging from 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the players' skill and speed.
Is Tak difficult to learn?
The basic rules of Tak are quite simple and can be learned in a few minutes. The complexity arises in the strategy and tactics you develop during the game.
What are the main components of Tak?
The game usually comes with wooden pieces representing flat stones, standing stones, and capstones, along with a board that can be made of cloth or other material.
What type of player is Tak recommended for?
Tak is ideal for players who enjoy abstract games, pure strategy, puzzles, and mental duels. If you like chess, Go, or similar games, you'll love Tak.
Does Tak involve luck?
No, Tak is a pure strategy and combinatorial game. There are no dice or luck elements; the outcome depends entirely on player decisions.
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