The board game Blokus is a popular strategy game that's perfect for players who like structured and tactical challenges!
It is a game that appeals to newcomers and experienced players alike, thanks to its simplicity and quick-to-learn rules.
In this article, we will introduce the game, its history, game dynamics, number of players, age, duration, pros and cons and difficulty level.
Key facts
| Created by | In 2000 |
| Type | Strategic, Family |
| Number of players | 2-4 |
| Age of players | from 7+ years |
| Duration of the game | 30 minutes |
| Level of complexity | easy |
| Indicative price | 24-35 € |
Briefly about the game
Goal
As many blocks as possible should be placed on the game board so that the player has as few blocks as possible when scoring points.
Type
The game requires an abstract strategy, comparable to chess or GO games. It is an intelligent and spatial thinking board game and is ideal for parties or family gatherings.
Number and age of players
Mattel Blokus Classic can be played by two to four players. It can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or board game experience, but the recommended age is 7 years and up.
Duration of the game
Duration depends on the number of players. Games typically last between 20 and 30 minutes per game, so it can be played even during short breaks.
Level of complexity
The game has simple rules but a complex strategy, requiring players to plan carefully, have insight and think through their moves.
It may take some time for newcomers to understand the game's possibilities and see all the tactics available, but that only makes it more interesting.
Experienced players can play a much more challenging version of the game, or make up their own rules and challenge themselves more intelligently.
Game pluses
✅ Easy rules: The rules of Mattel Blokus are very simple and easy to understand, so the game can be played by all ages.
✅ Quick game: It's a fast-paced board game that lasts 20-30 minutes.
✅ Beautiful design: The game box contains coloured blocks and a game board, which are of fine and high-quality design and look very attractive visually.
✅ Promotes communication: The game encourages cooperation and discussion between players.
✅ Intellectual challenge: A smooth game requires excellent spatial awareness, planning and strategy to block opponents and maximise your playing space.
Game cons
❌ Few players: Board game is designed for 2-4 players, so it's not the best choice for larger gatherings.
❌ Monotonous: The game has no variations or expansions, so it can quickly become too boring.
❌ Small details: A small board and small blocks may seem too small for some players.
What is in the game kit?
The blocks in the game box contain the following components.
| Rulebook | 1 |
| 400-box game board | 1 |
| Blocks in different shapes and colours | 84 |
Board game Blokus - rules
At the start of the game, all players must start the game with the colour of blocks of their choice (red, blue, yellow or green). Each player receives 21 blocks of one colour.
Always start from the corners of the game board, i.e. each player must start from his nearest corner and fill it first.
All the action takes place in a counter-clockwise direction, starting with the player selected by lot.
All players must place one of their blocks on the game board in such a way that each new block touches at least one piece of the same colour, but only on the corners.
The blocks placed by the participant cannot touch the sides, but can be placed horizontally or vertically.
Players take turns to place one piece each.
Players may not remove or reposition blocks placed on the board.
The game continues until all players have no more blocks to place.
Blocking
Players must try to block their opponents.
They can do this:
- Try to place your blocks in such a way that the edges or corners of your blocks restrict your opponent's pieces' placement possibilities.
For example, if your opponent has many long and narrow pieces, you can try to take a place where he might want to place his piece. - Try to place your blocks in such a way that they occupy the central part of the board and make it difficult for your opponent to move.
For example, if your opponent has a lot of small and square pieces, you can try to get a space where he can place them. - Try to arrange your blocks in such a way that they have as many gaps between them as possible, which can then be filled with smaller shapes.
For example, if the opponent has a lot of large and irregular shapes left, you can try to leave a space where he cannot fit them into that space. - Try to place your pieces in such a way that they block your opponent's starting position or his path to a particular goal.
For example, if your opponent has red blocks and starts the game from the bottom left corner, you can try to get next to him or his way to the blue blocks.
Scoring
At the end of the game, players count how many squares are on their remaining pieces. The player with the lowest number of squares wins.
More complex scoring
Players up for a bigger challenge should try extended scoring, where players compete for the highest possible score.
Players count the number of squares on their remaining pieces as follows:
- For the remaining 1 square -1 point;
- +15 points if all pieces are placed on the board;
- +5 points if the last piece placed was the smallest, i.e. (one square).
History
The Blokus board game was created in 2000 by French designer Bernardo Tavitiano and published by Mattel.
Blokus board game - summary
The board game Blokus requires not only strategic thinking, but also intelligent planning, spatial awareness and the ability to anticipate your opponents' actions.
It's a great way to spend time with friends or family, as the rules are easy to understand even for new players.
The game becomes more engaging and competitive as players gain more experience, making it a wonderful choice for any board game lover.
What is the purpose of the game❓
The aim of the Mattel Blocks game is to place as many blocks as possible on the game board, so that the player has as few blocks as possible at the end of the game when the points are counted.
What type of game❓
This is a strategy board game. This game is suitable for families with children, as well as for parties.
Is this board game suitable for one player❓
❌ No. The board game is recommended for 2 to 4 players.
What is the duration of the game❓
The board game Blokus can last approximately 30 minutes.
What's in the set❓
- Rulebook
- Game board with 400 cells
- 84 blocks in different shapes and colours
