Zendo*

Zendo is a thought-provoking game of inductive logic, where players dive into the roles of Students under the guidance of a Master, all working to unravel a hidden rule through the construction and analysis of various shapes and structures. Drawing inspiration from the classic game Eleusis, Zendo distinguishes itself with the use of Looney Pyramids, offering a visually engaging and intellectually stimulating experience.

Gameplay Overview

• The Master's Rule: One player takes on the role of the Master, devising a secret rule that the other players must discover. This rule can be anything from the arrangement of the pieces to the colors used.
• Building and Guessing: Students attempt to deduce the rule by building configurations of the game pieces, to which the Master will indicate whether they comply with the rule or not.
• Winning the Game: The game progresses through a series of turns where students construct new configurations, gather clues, and make guesses about the nature of the rule. The first student to correctly guess the rule wins the game.

Special Features

• Adaptability: The 2017 version of Zendo expanded the game's components to include blocks and wedges, in addition to the traditional pyramids, offering more variety and complexity in the configurations that can be created.
• Accessibility: To aid novice players, an optional system of cards is included to help generate the Master's rule, making the game more accessible to those new to inductive logic games.
• Expansion: For those who own Pyramid Arcade, there is an expansion available that allows players to experience "Pyramid Zendo," focusing on the game's original pyramid pieces.

Conclusion

Zendo stands out as a unique and engaging board game that challenges players to think logically and creatively. Its use of geometric pieces for the construction of puzzles, combined with the cerebral challenge of deducing hidden rules, makes it a fascinating game for those who enjoy puzzles, logic, and a bit of friendly competition. Whether you are a seasoned player familiar with inductive reasoning games or a newcomer eager to test your logical thinking, Zendo offers an intriguing and rewarding experience that encourages players to observe, hypothesize, and adapt.