Pick & Pack
- Designer Simon Hunt
- Publisher Z-Man Games , YOKA Games
- Illustration Régis Moulun
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Pick & Pack, two players compete as factory workers to pack the best apples into crates using a broken mechanical arm controlled from two sides. Players must coordinate horizontal and vertical movements on a grid, trying to grab premium apples while blocking their opponent. The mix of quality control and order chaos adds tactical depth in quick rounds.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed exclusively for two players, Pick & Pack is a light to medium abstract strategy game suitable for ages 8 and up. It requires no extensive experience and fits well into short gaming sessions of about 20 minutes.
How It Works
Each player controls one axis of the mechanical arm’s movement on a 6x6 grid—one moves left-right, the other up-down. The Action Queue mechanic means players plan and execute moves in sequence. The goal is to collect the most valuable apples by skillfully navigating the grid and interfering with the opponent.
What Makes It Special
Simon Hunt's Pick & Pack was nominated for the 2008 Golden Geek Best 2-Player Board Game and the 2009 Boardgames Australia Awards Best International Game. It blends Action Queue with Grid Movement in an abstract factory-themed two-player competition.
Awards
2008
- 2009 Boardgames Australia Awards Best International Game — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime around 20 minutes
- High player interaction through direct competition
- Unique blend of Action Queue and Grid Movement
- Factory theme with quality control elements
Contra
- Only playable with exactly two players
- Abstract theme may not appeal to everyone
- Limited variability due to fixed grid size
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in an apple factory during bonus week, where workers operate a malfunctioning mechanical arm to pick and pack apples into crates, competing for the best produce.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on planning your arm movements carefully and watch your opponent’s actions closely.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Pick & Pack is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 20 minutes, making it ideal for short play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a light to medium abstract strategy game suitable for players aged 8 and up with no extensive prior experience required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Pick & Pack uniquely combines Action Queue and Grid Movement mechanics in a two-player abstract setting with a factory theme.
Is this suitable for families?
With an age recommendation of 8+ and short playtime, it is suitable for families who enjoy abstract strategy games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Action Queue and Grid Movement mechanics requires strategic planning and coordination.
Fazit
Pick & Pack is a recommended quick tactical game for two players who enjoy abstract strategy and direct competition. Its short playtime and unique mechanics make it appealing for fast, engaging duels.
