As a devoted fan of tactile, pre-tech games, I find myself drawn to the charm of physical components like cards and tiles, especially when I’m on the move. For me, the allure of a deck of cards or a set of Bananagrams far outweighs the digital distractions of tiny screens, making them essential travel companions. While a swimsuit might occasionally be left behind, my Travel Game is always a priority.
Recently, I’ve become completely captivated by a fantastic travel game called Qwirkle.
My introduction to Qwirkle happened last New Year’s, thanks to our fun-loving neighbors who brought over the version with larger tiles. I was immediately excited to discover a travel version, which has since accompanied me on adventures in places as diverse as Venice, the Dolomites, New York City, and Asheville.
Why Qwirkle is the Perfect Travel Game
Qwirkle stands out as an exceptional travel game due to its tile-based, rummy-style gameplay designed for up to four players. The primary objective – if board games can truly be said to have objectives – is to create sets, or melds, of six tiles that share either a shape or a color. Forget formal boards; Qwirkle is perfectly suited for any flat surface, be it a table at home, a hotel lobby, an airport lounge, or a cozy café.
The game begins with a player making an initial move, and from there, everyone builds upon the existing layout, expanding both vertically and horizontally. It shares similarities with Scrabble, but without the constraints of a board, or like a crossword puzzle, but with shapes and colors instead of letters. Points are accumulated after each turn, with a significant bonus awarded for achieving a “Qwirkle” – completing a line of six identical shapes or colors. Strategic thinking is key, as skilled players must balance offensive moves with defensive tactics to prevent opponents from scoring Qwirkles. This blend of simplicity and strategy is what makes the game so enjoyable and a top pick for a travel game.
Another compelling reason why Qwirkle has become my new travel essential is its language-agnostic nature. It transcends language barriers, allowing you to play with people from all corners of the globe, even if you don’t share a common tongue. Basic gaming gestures are all it takes to convey the rules. We experienced this firsthand in Italy when a group of German couples, intrigued by our intense game, approached us to inquire, “vat ees ze gahm?” Through a combination of gestures and minimal English, we explained the rules, and soon they joined us for a match. This universal appeal makes it a fantastic travel game to connect with others while exploring new places.
I’ve even started carrying an extra set of the Qwirkle travel game to gift to hosts as a token of gratitude during my travels. So far, I have yet to encounter anyone, young or old, who doesn’t enjoy this game. It truly is a travel game for all ages, just be prepared to be challenged by even the youngest players in your group! Happy Qwirkling on your next adventure!
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