Patrol (board game)

Patrol is a two-player abstract strategy board game, published by Gametek in 1970. It is often considered a game of perfect information, meaning that all information about the game state is available to both players at all times.

Gameplay:

The game is played on a square grid, typically 8x8. Each player controls a set of pieces, often represented by differently colored checkers or counters. The specific number of pieces each player starts with varies depending on the version, but generally ranges from 12-16.

The objective of Patrol is to either capture all of the opponent's pieces or to trap them so that they cannot make any legal moves.

Pieces move orthogonally (horizontally or vertically), one space at a time. Captures are made by "short jumping" over an adjacent opponent's piece onto the empty space immediately beyond. Multiple captures are allowed in a single turn. Players must make any available captures. If multiple capture sequences are available, the player may choose which one to execute.

Strategy:

Patrol emphasizes strategic positioning and forward planning. Players must anticipate their opponent's moves and create traps while avoiding being trapped themselves. Securing central positions on the board is often advantageous. Understanding forced capture sequences and their potential consequences is crucial for success. Due to the forced capture rule, tactical blunders can quickly lead to significant material losses.

Variations:

While the core rules remain consistent, some variations exist regarding the board size and the number of pieces each player starts with. These variations can subtly affect the game's overall strategy and tempo.