Focus
- Designer Sid Sackson
- Publisher Daekor Designs , Estrela , Hugendubel Verlag , KOSMOS , Labo Market
- Illustration Marion Pott
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Focus, players move stacks of pieces across an 8x8 board, with the number of pieces in a stack determining movement distance. The goal is to capture opponent pieces and restrict their moves. Stacks can only be five pieces high; excess pieces are removed or reserved. Strategic placement and movement allow players to reintroduce reserved pieces, controlling the board through tactical decisions.
Who Is This Game For?
Focus is designed for 2 to 4 players aged 10 and up, suited for fans of abstract strategy games. With a playtime of about 45 minutes, it fits well for those who enjoy short to medium-length sessions and prefer accessible yet thoughtful gameplay.
How It Works
The game centers on grid movement, where players move stacks according to their size. When a stack exceeds five pieces, bottom pieces are removed—own pieces become reserves to re-enter later, opponent pieces are captured. Instead of moving, a player can place a reserved piece on the board. This creates a strategic battle for control and mobility.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Sid Sackson, Focus won the 1981 Spiel des Jahres award. It is a classic abstract strategy game with a unique stacking and grid movement mechanic. First described in 1963 and part of the combinatorial game family, it is often cited as a foundational game for modern abstracts.
Awards
1981
1980
- 1987 Gra Roku Game of the Year — Winner
Pro
- Classic abstract strategy game by Sid Sackson
- Innovative stacking and grid movement mechanic
- Spiel des Jahres winner 1981
- Relatively short 45-minute playtime
Contra
- No thematic background, purely abstract
- More suited for experienced players than young families
- Limited to 2 to 4 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Focus is set in an abstract, thematic-free environment on an 8x8 grid board where players move and control stacks of pieces.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on managing your stacks carefully and use reserves strategically to stay flexible.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Focus is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game of Focus lasts about 45 minutes, suitable for a medium-length session.
What prior experience do I need?
Focus is a strategy game for enthusiasts with abstract tactical thinking but no complex rules.
How does this compare to similar games?
Focus stands out due to its unique stacking and grid movement mechanics compared to other abstract games.
Is this suitable for families?
Recommended for ages 10 and up, Focus is better suited for experienced players rather than younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of grid movement with stacking is the key mechanic that defines Focus.
Fazit
Focus is recommended for players who enjoy abstract tactical games with short to medium playtime. Especially appealing to fans of Sid Sackson and classic game design.
