Diamond
- Designer Larry Back
- Publisher GAMES Magazine
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Diamond, you play on a unique diamond-shaped board made of interlocking squares and triangles. The goal is to occupy the four corners of any square with your pieces. The game has two phases: first, players place their pieces on the board points, then they move them to adjacent points. Capturing is possible under specific conditions, and neutral red pieces add strategic complexity by blocking spaces.
Who Is This Game For?
Diamond targets fans of abstract strategy games and is designed exclusively for two players aged 8 and up. With a playing time of about 30 minutes, it suits casual and experienced players looking for quick tactical duels. Beginners can easily learn the simple core mechanics.
How It Works
The core mechanic is Area Majority/Influence, where players aim to control points on the board. Initially, players take turns placing their pieces on the intersections of squares and triangles. In the second phase, pieces move to adjacent points to achieve the win condition — controlling the four corners of a square. Capturing opponent pieces is possible when they are isolated on a triangle corner. Neutral red pieces cannot be moved and must stay adjacent to a player's piece, creating tactical obstacles.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Larry Back, Diamond introduces a unique board geometry and neutral pieces to an abstract two-player game, published in 2012. Inspired by Kensington, it differentiates itself by reducing draws and increasing dynamic play. As part of the 'Players: Two-Player Only Games' family, it focuses purely on head-to-head strategy with the Area Majority/Influence mechanic.
Pro
- Short playing time of about 30 minutes
- Innovative diamond-shaped board design
- Easy to learn with clear rules
- Strategic depth through neutral red pieces
Contra
- Only suitable for two players
- Purely abstract without theme
- No expansions or additional modes
Setting & Atmosphäre
Diamond is an abstract game without thematic elements. The board consists of a diamond-shaped pattern of squares and triangles where players strategically place their pieces.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on controlling the four corners of squares and use neutral red pieces as strategic blockers.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Diamond is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game of Diamond lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick abstract strategy game.
What prior experience do I need?
Suitable for players aged 8 and up, Diamond requires no special prior experience with abstract games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Diamond differs from games like Kensington by featuring a unique board geometry and neutral red pieces.
Is this suitable for families?
With simple rules and short playtime, Diamond is family-friendly for older children and up.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Area Majority/Influence mechanic is central, providing tactical depth in controlling board areas.
Fazit
Diamond offers a compact, tactical experience for two players with straightforward rules and a short playtime. It is recommended for those who enjoy abstract duels and innovative board layouts but might be too simple for players seeking deeper complexity.
