Arcanor
Arcanor at your next game night?
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- Designer Michaël Aguilar
- Publisher Dujardin , Grand V
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In Arcanor, you play on an 8x7 square board with cylinders of different sizes stacked like Russian dolls. You move your cylinders tactically to 'eat' smaller enemy cylinders or free your own. The game requires both tactics and memory to recall which cylinders lie beneath others. The goal is to bring 12 value points to the opponent's baseline.
Who Is This Game For?
Arcanor is suitable for players aged 8 and up, designed as a compact two-player game lasting around 30 minutes. It's a light to medium abstract strategy game with a memory component, requiring some familiarity with tactical and memory games but accessible to newcomers.
How It Works
The game board is an 8x7 grid where players alternate moving their cylinders. Cylinders vary in size and value and can be stacked. Core mechanics are Memory and Square Grid: players move, capture smaller enemy cylinders adjacent in eight directions, or free their own cylinders. Remembering which cylinders lie under others is key to planning effective moves.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michaël Aguilar, Arcanor blends abstract strategy with memory elements on a grid-based board. It is a dedicated two-player game with a short playtime and was recognized at the 1994 Concours International de Créateurs de Jeux de Société. It belongs to the family of two-player games with wooden components and grid mechanics.
Awards
1995
Pro
- Compact 30-minute playtime
- Combination of memory and abstract strategy
- Direct interaction in a two-player format
- Tactical stacking and movement on a grid
Contra
- Only playable with two players
- Abstract theme without narrative context
- Requires good memory and focus
Setting & atmosphere
The game is abstract with no thematic context, played on a grid board featuring cylinders of varying sizes as game pieces.
Tips for beginners
Focus on remembering the positions and sizes of hidden cylinders to gain tactical advantages.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Arcanor is designed exclusively for two players and cannot be played solo.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick play.
What prior experience do I need?
Some knowledge of abstract strategy and memory games is helpful but not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Arcanor stands out by combining memory elements with abstract strategy on a grid board, unlike classic pure strategy games.
Is this suitable for families?
Suitable for ages 8 and up, it is better for families with older children and strategy game enthusiasts.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Memory and Square Grid mechanics defines its unique gameplay.
Fazit
Arcanor is recommended for players seeking a short, strategic challenge that incorporates memory skills. Its focused two-player gameplay demands concentration and patience.
Arcanor at your next game night?
Add Arcanor to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Arcanor to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
