Ingenious
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- Designer Reiner Knizia
- Publisher KOSMOS , 999 Games , Bard Centrum Gier , Brain Games , Broadway Toys LTD
- Illustration Michaela Kienle , Fabio Maiorana , Scott Nicely , Simone Peruzzi , Andreas Resch , Nick Whyles
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 Ingenious, players place colored domino-like tiles on a hexagonal board, scoring points for lines of matching colors. Your score depends on your lowest-scoring color, requiring balanced play across all colors. The game includes solo and team modes where you manage your hand and build patterns to maximize your lowest color score.
Who Is This Game For?
Ingenious is a medium-complexity strategy game suitable for players aged 8 and up. With a playtime around 45 minutes, it fits well into an evening session. It's ideal for those who enjoy abstract planning and tactical hand management, with some prior experience helpful but not required.
How It Works
The game mechanics include Hand Management, Tile Placement, and Pattern Building on a Hexagon Grid. Players take turns placing domino-style tiles with two colored hexes, scoring points for adjacent hexes of matching color. Your final score is your lowest color score, and reaching certain thresholds allows extra turns. The player with the highest lowest color score wins.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Reiner Knizia, Ingenious won the 2004 Spiel der Spiele Game of the Year and was nominated for the Spiel des Jahres. Its unique Highest-Lowest Scoring mechanic sets it apart from other abstract games. It belongs to the HexHex8 Grid family and features both solo and team play options.
Awards
2006
2004
2004
2004
2004
- 2010 MinD-Spielepreis — Winner
- 2004 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Winner of Spiel der Spiele Game of the Year 2004
- Includes solo and team play modes
- Unique Highest-Lowest Scoring mechanic encourages balanced play
- Short playtime around 45 minutes
Contra
- Abstract theme lacks narrative depth
- Strategy can be challenging for beginners
- Recommended age of 8+ requires concentration
Setting & atmosphere
Ingenious features an abstract colorful world where players place domino-style tiles with six different colors on a hex grid. It focuses purely on strategic placement without thematic elements.
Tips for beginners
Focus on balancing all colors instead of specializing in just one or two.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Ingenious includes rules for solo play.
How long does a game really take?
Games last about 45 minutes, suitable for an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
It's a medium-complexity game; some experience with abstract games helps but is not necessary.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ingenious is unique for its Highest-Lowest Scoring mechanic that rewards balanced scoring across colors.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 8 and moderate complexity, it suits families with older children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Hand Management, Tile Placement, and Highest-Lowest Scoring defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Ingenious is recommended for players seeking a balanced abstract strategy with tactical depth and patience for hand management and pattern building. Best for 2 to 4 players and solo play.
Ingenious at your next game night?
Add Ingenious to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Ingenious to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
