The classic game of Othello (or actually “Reversi“) takes “a minute to learn, and a lifetime to master”, and is truly a fine example of how the simplest components can create intriguing game experiences. The Green Box doesn’t have enough pieces for a full game, but you can play a compact version on a 6×6 grid.

At a glance:

Players: 2

Time: 15 min

Complexity: Low

Components used:

All 36 tiles

40 cubes in two colours (with maybe a few borrowed from other colours in the endgame)

othellino_1Setup:

Create a 6×6 square grid using the face down sides of the tiles. Give each player all the cubes of one colour. Each player places two pieces diagonally in the center of the board, so all four center pieces are occupied.

 

Play:

Taking turns, each player places one of their pieces on the board. Only moves that capture at least one of the opponents pieces are allowed.

Capturing:

othellino_2
Game in progress

You capture an opponents piece by trapping it between your own pieces in a straight vertical, horisontal or diagonal line. It is possible to trap several pieces with one placement, either in the same direction or in multiple direction. As long as you can trace a line from the piece you placed to another piece of your colour, then all the opponents pieces caught in between are captured. Check all lines moving in all directions from the piece you placed the same way.

Captured pieces are removed from the board, and you replace them with your own in the same spaces. The pieces can be reused later, and the players can not actually run out of pieces.

Winner:

The game ends when neither player is able to perform a valid move.

For more in-depth play examples, strategy tips and history, check the Wikipedia page for Reversi.