Ubongo

Ubongo is a fast-paced, multi-player abstract strategy puzzle game designed by Grzegorz Rejchtman and published by Kosmos in 2003. The name "Ubongo" is derived from the Swahili word for "brain."

The core gameplay revolves around players simultaneously attempting to solve individual puzzles presented on their player boards. Each puzzle requires players to fit a set of Tetris-like pieces (polyominoes) into a designated area on their board. These pieces must be used without overlapping or leaving any gaps.

The game incorporates an element of luck and speed. Players roll a die to determine which set of polyominoes they must use for the round. A timer, often represented by an hourglass, dictates how long players have to complete their puzzle. The first player to successfully solve their puzzle shouts "Ubongo!" and advances their token on a track surrounding the game board.

Ubongo includes multiple rounds, and players accumulate points based on their finishing position in each round. Bonus gems are awarded to the fastest solvers, further influencing the final scores. The player with the most points at the end of the game is declared the winner.

Ubongo is known for its engaging and competitive nature, promoting spatial reasoning skills and quick thinking under pressure. Its relatively simple rules and fast gameplay make it accessible to a wide range of players. Numerous versions and expansions of Ubongo have been released, often introducing new puzzle variations, pieces, and mechanics to enhance the base game's replayability. These include versions tailored for younger players and more complex iterations designed for experienced gamers.