Tak
- Designer James Ernest , Patrick Rothfuss
- Publisher Cheapass Games , Greater Than Games, LLC , James Ernest Games , Maldito Games , Wyrmwood Gaming
- Illustration Echo Chernik , Sarah Kelly
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Tak, two players compete to build a continuous road of their pieces connecting opposite sides of a square board. Stones can be placed flat as part of the road or stood upright as walls blocking the path. Capstones can flatten walls and act both as road and block. The game combines Grid Movement with Network and Route Building on a Square Grid, demanding strategic planning and tactical depth.
Who Is This Game For?
Tak is aimed at players aged 12 and up who enjoy abstract strategy and deep two-player duels. With a playtime around 60 minutes, it is a medium-weight game that requires focus but features simple rules. Prior experience with strategy games helps but is not mandatory.
How It Works
Players take turns placing stones on a square grid, aiming to create an unbroken road connecting opposite board edges. The game uses mechanics like Grid Movement, Network and Route Building, and Square Grid. Stones placed flat contribute to the road, while standing stones act as walls. Capstones can flatten walls to open new paths, adding strategic layers.
What Makes It Special
Designed by James Ernest and Patrick Rothfuss, Tak was published in 2016 and nominated multiple times for awards like the Golden Geek Best 2-Player Board Game and Origins Awards Best Board Game. It is based on the fictional world of the Kingkiller Chronicle and offers a unique blend of abstract strategy and road-building mechanics.
Awards
2016, 2017
- 2018 Origins Awards Best Board Game — Nominated
- 2017 Board Game Quest Awards Best Two Player Game — Nominated
Pro
- Deep strategy with simple rules
- Focused two-player tactical duel
- Versatile mechanics: Grid Movement, Network Building
- Multiple award nominations
Contra
- Only for two players
- Requires concentration and strategic thinking
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Tak takes place on an abstract square grid without a specific theme but inspired by the fantasy universe of the Kingkiller Chronicle. The goal is to build a continuous road across the board.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on learning the core rules and understanding how stones function as roads or walls.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Tak is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game of Tak typically lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
Tak is a medium-weight strategy game with simple rules but requires strategic thinking.
How does this compare to similar games?
Unique due to its blend of Grid Movement and Network Building in an abstract setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Tak is suitable for players aged 12 and up and is best for families with older children or those experienced with strategy games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Grid Movement, Network and Route Building, and capstones sets Tak apart mechanically.
Fazit
Tak is a challenging two-player abstract strategy game that is easy to learn but difficult to master. It is recommended for players seeking tactical depth and competitive gameplay.
