Plateau: A Game of Abstract Strategy -Rules, Winning & Essential How-to Guide

Introduction

Plateau is a two-player abstract strategy board game, and one I particularly enjoy for its depth and complexity despite its simple rules. The game was invented by Jim Albea and first published in 1986. The equipment needed to play Plateau includes a game board and two sets of game pieces, each set containing 15 pieces of a unique color.

Rules for playing Plateau

The official rules for Plateau are quite straightforward. The game is played on a 8×8 square board. Each player starts with 15 pieces of their color. The objective of the game is to create a stack of 5 pieces of your color on the board. The stack can be vertical or horizontal, but not diagonal. The game ends when one player achieves this objective or when all pieces have been played and no player has achieved the objective, in which case the game is a draw.

There are also some ‘house rules’ that can be used to add variations to the game. For example, some players like to play with a rule where the stack of 5 pieces must be in a straight line, adding an extra layer of challenge to the game.

How to Play Plateau

Setup

The game begins with an empty board. Players decide who goes first, and then take turns placing their pieces on the board. A piece can be placed on any empty square on the board.

Gameplay

On a player’s turn, they can either place a new piece on the board or move one of their existing pieces. A piece can be moved to any adjacent square (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally), as long as it is not occupied by another piece. If a player moves a piece onto a square occupied by an opponent’s piece, the opponent’s piece is removed from the board.

End of the Game

The game ends when one player creates a stack of 5 pieces of their color on the board, or when all pieces have been played and no player has achieved the objective. The player who achieves the objective is the winner. If no player achieves the objective, the game is a draw.

How to Win at Plateau

Winning at Plateau requires a combination of strategic planning, tactical decision-making, and a keen eye for opportunities. Here are some strategies that can help you win at Plateau:

1. Control the Center: The center of the board is a key area in Plateau. Controlling the center gives you more options for placing and moving your pieces, and makes it harder for your opponent to form a stack of 5 pieces.
2. Block Your Opponent: If you see your opponent trying to form a stack of 5 pieces, try to block them by placing your pieces in their way. This can disrupt their strategy and buy you some time to form your own stack.
3. Plan Ahead: Try to plan your moves several turns in advance. This can help you anticipate your opponent’s moves and respond effectively.

Best Strategies for playing Plateau game

While the strategies mentioned above can help you win at Plateau, there are also some advanced strategies that can give you an edge over your opponent. Here are some of the best strategies for playing Plateau:

1. Use Your Pieces Wisely: Each piece in Plateau is valuable. Try to use your pieces in a way that maximizes their potential. For example, instead of using a piece to block your opponent, consider using it to form a stack of your own.
2. Keep Your Options Open: Try to keep your pieces spread out on the board, rather than clustering them in one area. This gives you more options for placing and moving your pieces, and makes it harder for your opponent to block you.
3. Be Flexible: While it’s important to have a plan, it’s also important to be flexible and able to adapt to the changing situation on the board. If your original plan isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change your strategy.

Scenarios for Plateau

Playing Plateau can lead to a variety of scenarios, each with its own challenges and opportunities. Here are some common scenarios and how to handle them:

1. You’re Behind: If you’re behind in the game, don’t panic. Instead, focus on disrupting your opponent’s strategy and creating opportunities for yourself. Remember, the game isn’t over until one player forms a stack of 5 pieces.
2. You’re Ahead: If you’re ahead in the game, don’t get complacent. Keep an eye on your opponent’s moves and try to anticipate their strategy. Continue to play aggressively and aim to form a stack of 5 pieces as quickly as possible.
3. The Board is Full: If the board is full and no player has formed a stack of 5 pieces, the game is a draw. In this scenario, try to position your pieces in a way that gives you the best chance of forming a stack in the next game.

Frequently Asked Questions about playing Plateau game

Here are some common questions about playing Plateau, along with their answers:

1. Q: Can a piece be moved diagonally?
   A: Yes, a piece can be moved to any adjacent square, including diagonally.
2. Q: What happens if a player moves a piece onto a square occupied by an opponent’s piece?
   A: The opponent’s piece is removed from the board.
3. Q: Can a stack of 5 pieces be formed diagonally?
   A: No, a stack of 5 pieces can only be formed horizontally or vertically, not diagonally.
4. Q: What happens if all pieces have been played and no player has formed a stack of 5 pieces?
   A: The game is a draw.
5. Q: Can the game be played with more than two players?
   A: No, Plateau is a two-player game.

External Links

For more information about Plateau, visit the official game website here.