Pentago
- Designer Tomas Flodén
- Publisher Mindtwister AB , Belleville (Бельвіль) , Carrom Art , Egmont Polska , Giseh Verlag
- Illustration Mårten Skoger
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Pentago, players place marbles on a 6x6 board divided into four 3x3 quadrants. After placing a marble, you can rotate one quadrant by 90 degrees, changing the board layout. The goal is to get five marbles in a row first. The rotation mechanic adds a dynamic twist to classic pattern building and spatial strategy.
Who Is This Game For?
Pentago is a quick, tactical game for two players aged 8 and up. With a playing time of about 5 minutes, it suits those who enjoy fast abstract strategy games. It requires minimal prior experience but appeals to players who like spatial challenges and pattern recognition.
How It Works
Players take turns placing a marble on an empty space in one of the four 3x3 quadrants. Then they may rotate a quadrant by 90 degrees (Map Deformation), shifting the position of marbles on the board. The first to align five marbles in a row (Pattern Building) on the 6x6 square grid wins. This creates a constantly evolving playing field.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Tomas Flodén, Pentago won the 2005 Årets Spel Best Adult Game and the 2006 Mensa Select Award. It innovatively combines n-in-a-row mechanics with board rotation. Its abstract design and very short playtime make it unique among abstract strategy games.
Awards
2006
- 2010 MinD-Spieletipp — Nominated
- 2006 Vuoden Peli Adult Game of the Year — Winner
- 2005 Årets Spel Best Adult Game — Winner
- 2005 Årets Spill Best Family Game — Nominated
Pro
- Very short playing time (~5 minutes)
- Combines pattern building with board rotation
- Suitable for players aged 8 and up
- Winner of the 2006 Mensa Select Award
Contra
- Only for two players
- No thematic or narrative elements
- Very short games may feel too brief for some
Setting & Atmosphäre
Pentago has no thematic setting; it is played on an abstract 6x6 grid made of four 3x3 sections. The focus is purely strategic pattern building.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on building your patterns and use quadrant rotations to disrupt your opponent's lines.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Pentago is designed specifically for two players.
How long does a game really take?
Games last about 5 minutes, allowing for quick play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Pentago is easy to learn and suitable for beginners aged 8 and older.
How does this compare to similar games?
Pentago uniquely combines classic pattern building with the twist of board rotation.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, its simple rules and short duration make it family-friendly.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Map Deformation mechanic via rotating quadrants is its key feature.
Fazit
Pentago is a compact, tactical abstract game perfect for two players with limited time. The rotation mechanic adds strategic depth, making it a classic in the genre.
