The Very Clever Pipe Game

Cheapass Games · Board game · 1996
6.0 Ludopedia 6.2 BGG 2–4 · best 2 20 min Weight 1.6/5
Buy · from US$ 3.35
6.0 rating Ludopedia
6.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Enjoy a quick abstract strategy game with a 'take and play' twist? The Very Clever Pipe Game might be your next obsession!

Highlights
  • Fast and easy to learn
  • Surprising strategy
  • Take that interaction
  • Great for portability
Keep in mind
  • Can feel a bit simple
  • Luck dependent
  • Generic theme
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready for a strategic plumbing challenge with The Very Clever Pipe Game! In this fast-paced and fun game, you and your friends will compete to build the best pipe networks using cards. Each card shows pieces of white and black pipes, and the mission is to place them on the table to form connections. The trick? When you complete a closed pipe circuit of your color, you claim the cards from that section. It's a 'take that' game with a touch of pattern building, where every move counts towards closing your network and, perhaps, hindering your neighbor. The original version comes with a generous deck for intense matches, but keep an eye out for a leaner version from the Hip Pocket Games series, perfect for carrying in your bag. The beauty lies in simplicity: easy-to-learn rules, but with surprising strategic depth. Perfect for those who enjoy abstract games with a touch of interaction and quick thinking. With a very short playtime, it's the ideal game to fill a gap or for a heated contest among friends. Who will be the master at connecting the dots and walking away with the highest score?

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 BEST
3 OK
4 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Series: Hip Pocket Games
Publisher Cheapass Games
Designer James Ernest
Artist James Ernest

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,403owners
99wishlist
27want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the average playtime?
Games are super quick, usually lasting between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the number of players and how fast you all are.
How many people can play?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players. The original version has a larger deck, and for 4 players, an additional mechanic using the card 'floors' is employed.
Is it a complicated game to learn?
Not at all! The rules are very straightforward, and you'll learn them quickly. The challenge lies in the strategy of placing cards and blocking opponents.
What comes in the box?
Basically, a deck of cards with pipe drawings. The original version has 120 cards, and the re-release in the Hip Pocket Games series has 48 cards.
Who is this game recommended for?
It's ideal for those who enjoy abstract games, quick strategy, a bit of direct interaction (like 'take that'), and games that don't take up too much time.
Is there a lot of language dependency?
No, the game has no text on the cards, only symbols and images, so the language barrier is practically non-existent.

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