Tak
- Players
- 2
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 60 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.4 / 5
- Year
- 2017
About the game
Tak is a two-player abstract strategy game where the goal is simple: connect two opposite sides of the board with a road of your stones. Stones can be placed flat to build roads or stood as walls to block opponents, while capstones can do both and flatten enemy walls. Despite its minimalist rules, Tak offers deep, layered strategy reminiscent of Go and chess. Notably designed with author Patrick Rothfuss, it began life as the fictional game from his Kingkiller Chronicle novels.
Hobbli's Notes
Tak delivers exactly what great abstract games promise: simple rules that open into deep, replayable strategy. The tension between building roads and blocking your opponent's makes every placement feel consequential. Its literary origin adds a fun layer of novelty for fans of The Kingkiller Chronicle, but the game stands entirely on its own merits. A must-try for fans of connection games like Hex or Go.
What we like
- Simple rules hide deep, layered strategic possibilities.
- Quick playtime makes it easy to fit in multiple rounds.
- Portable components suit travel and casual play alike.
- Literary tie-in adds novelty appeal for fantasy fans.
Keep in mind
- Strictly two-player, limiting its use for larger groups.
- Abstract theme may not appeal to players seeking narrative games.
Who it's for
Great for two-player strategy fans and abstract game enthusiasts of all ages who enjoy quick, portable, deeply strategic play.
