Abstract game is probably not my first choice when it comes to solo logic puzzles (I prefer a brainteaser with background setting and story-telling components). However, from time to time, there are a few uniquely-designed abstract games that impress us immensely. “IQ Stixx” by @smartgamesau is one of these amazing games we discovered recently that I can’t wait to share today (thank you @leisurelearning for providing a copy for review!).

Why I love ❤️ this game: (1) We have tested quite a few packing puzzles in the past, but we have never seen anything like “IQ Stixx” before! The set includes a game board, 10 puzzle sticks with indentations on different places, and a booklet with 120 challenges. First, place the sticks on the game board in the orientation and position as shown in the challenge; Next, place the remaining sticks on the board in a “criss-cross” manner so that 5 horizontal pieces would stack and fit nicely on top of 5 vertical ones (ie 2 cutouts cannot be placed on top of each other, nor 2 sticks without cutouts). This puzzle is fresh, innovative, and definitely “sticky”!

(2) Like the other SmartGames sets, the challenges are grouped in different difficulty levels, from “Starter” level (where plenty of hints are provided and with pretty straightforward solutions), to the almost impossible “Wizard” stage (where each of the challenge only comprises 2 sticks as clue on the base, and players need to figure out the positions of the remaining 8 sticks). There is only one solution for each challenge, and the solutions are included at the end of the booklet.

(3) The components are sturdy, excitingly colourful, of high quality, and cleverly-done; I love that the sticks are smartly- labelled (with numbers or letters, on both sides and at each end of the sticks) for easy identification and setup. There are also square images printed on the opposite side of the cutouts to make it “visually” easier to solve the challenges even when the sticks have their cutouts faced down. (4) I love the compact and travel-friendly, portable case. This is a fantastic game to go on-the-road with the family!

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Recommended age: 7 year-old ++

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