Hive
- Designer John Yianni
- Publisher Gen42 Games , 64 Ounce Games , asmodee , Crómola , G3
- Illustration John Yianni
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Hive, two players face off in a strategic duel without a fixed board; the playing area forms dynamically from the placed insect pieces. Each piece represents a bug with unique movement patterns on a hexagonal grid. The goal is to completely surround the opponent's queen bee while protecting your own. Pieces are never removed but moved tactically to control the board.
Who Is This Game For?
Hive is a two-player game suitable for ages 9 and up, with a typical playtime of around 20 minutes. It is a gateway-level strategy game ideal for players who enjoy abstract games with simple setup but deep tactical options. Some prior experience with strategy games is helpful but not mandatory.
How It Works
Hive has no fixed board; the game area emerges from the placement and movement of insect tiles on a hex grid. Each insect type moves according to its own pattern (Pattern Movement), and the pieces themselves form the map (Pieces as Map). Players aim to surround the opponent's queen bee completely (Enclosure) by placing and sliding pieces strategically.
What Makes It Special
Designed by John Yianni, Hive won the Mensa Select award in 2006 and received multiple nominations including the 2003 International Gamers Award. It stands out by blending bug-themed pieces with unique movement mechanics on a dynamic hex grid, differentiating it from traditional board and tile games.
Awards
2007
2006
2006
2003
- 2010 MinD-Spielepreis — Nominated
- 2007 Juego del Año — Finalist
Pro
- Short playtime of about 20 minutes allows quick sessions
- No fixed board; the playing area forms from the pieces themselves
- Diverse insect movement patterns add tactical depth
- Winner of the 2006 Mensa Select award
Contra
- Designed exclusively for two players
- May be abstract and challenging for beginners
- Limited thematic background beyond insect motif
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is themed around insects such as ants, bees, and grasshoppers, without a specific narrative or world-building context.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on protecting your queen and expanding the playing area before making aggressive moves.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Hive is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game of Hive lasts about 20 minutes, enabling quick and repeated play.
What prior experience do I need?
Hive is a gateway strategy game with simple rules, suitable for players with some experience in abstract games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Hive combines unique insect movement patterns with a dynamic board formed by the pieces themselves.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 9, Hive is suitable for families with older children who enjoy abstract strategy games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Enclosure, Pattern Movement, and Pieces as Map mechanics defines Hive's uniqueness.
Fazit
Hive is a compact, deep strategy game for two players with quick setup and high replayability. It is recommended for fans of abstract games seeking tactical challenges.
