An abstract 2-player game in which the objective is to create a line of 5 counters . The twist here is that the counters are placed in a series of 5 boards of differing size that are formed to make a pyramid, hence the name ‘Quinamid’.

The rules are simple, with any one of 3 options available to the player :
a) Place a counter in a vacant space
b) Rotate a board (including those boards ‘above’ it) through 90 degrees
c) Move a board (including those boards ‘above’ it) one ‘position’ in any orthogonal direction.

An important rule is that the subsequent player may neither move NOR rotate a board which was moved or rotated by the preceding player.

Players take it in turns to make their move until one of them reveals a line of 5 counters, this being in a vertical, horizontal or diagonal direction.

As players use option c) above they will ‘cover’ boards below, thereby hiding the contents. It follows therefore that there is a bit of memory required to recall what was under the various boards if you are to use it to your advantage.

A game is often completed in 2 or 3 minutes so replay value is high. It is often better to play a ‘best of 5’ series to employ different strategies, so that would take around 15 minutes.

The game should appeal to players aged 8-80. It could be played whilst waiting for a meal to be prepared or as a post-prandial diversion with other players spectating and giving out ‘advice’ ! Easy until they themselves have a go !!

Components are sturdy, with the counters and boards being made of good quality wood, and the package comes in a nice wooden presentation box of dimensions 7” x 7”, making it portable and suitable to be played on the train, the beach or at picnics.

Online Play

Boardspace.net (real time or turn based, AI option)

Mobile Apps

Splotch!