Ponte del Diavolo
- Designer Martin Ebel
- Publisher Hans im Glück , Rio Grande Games
- Illustration Julien Delval
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Ponte del Diavolo, players place wooden squares to create islands and then connect them with bridges. The strict rules on island size and bridge placement make positioning crucial. Similar to Alex Randolph's Twixt, thinking several moves ahead is key to outmaneuvering your opponent. The game offers tight, tactical gameplay despite its abstract nature.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets enthusiasts who enjoy short, tactical duels. With a playing time around 25 minutes and a minimum age of 10, it's suited for players who appreciate abstract strategy games with clear rules. Some prior experience with similar mechanics like network building and tile placement is helpful but not required.
How It Works
Ponte del Diavolo uses mechanics such as I Cut, You Choose, Network and Route Building, and Tile Placement on a Square Grid. Two players alternate placing wooden squares to build islands and then connect them with bridges. Fixed rules on island size and bridge connections require strategic foresight to maximize connections and score points.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Martin Ebel, Ponte del Diavolo won the Games Magazine Best New Abstract Strategy Game in 2009. It pays homage to Alex Randolph and his game Twixt. The game stands out with its use of the I Cut, You Choose mechanic combined with network building in a compact, challenging format.
Awards
2007
- 2010 MinD-Spielepreis — Nominated
- 2009 Games Magazine Best New Abstract Strategy Game — Winner
Pro
- Short playtime around 25 minutes for quick duels
- Award-winning abstract strategy (Games Magazine 2009)
- Core mechanics of tactical tile placement and network building
- Compact design for exactly two players
Contra
- Only for two players, no solo mode
- Highly abstract theme with little atmosphere
- Requires strategic planning, challenging for beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is abstract but thematically set in Venice, Italy. Players build islands and bridges reflecting the city's architectural style without a realistic depiction.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on carefully planning your island and bridge placement and think several moves ahead to outmaneuver your opponent.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Ponte del Diavolo is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A game takes about 25 minutes, making it ideal for quick gaming sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic experience with abstract strategy games is helpful but not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ponte del Diavolo is unique by combining I Cut, You Choose with network building, reminiscent of Alex Randolph's Twixt.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 10 and abstract strategy, it is better suited for experienced families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The I Cut, You Choose mechanic combined with network and route building shapes the tactical gameplay.
Fazit
Ponte del Diavolo is highly recommended for two players who enjoy tactical, abstract games with short rounds. It suits players interested in network and tile placement mechanics, offering depth despite simple components.
