Quarto

Quarto is a classic two-player abstract strategy game with a brilliantly simple twist: you choose which piece your opponent places on the board. The goal is to get four pieces in a row that share a common attribute — but with your opponent handing you your pieces, every move is a double-edged decision.

The 16 pieces vary across four attributes — tall or short, light or dark, square or round, hollow or solid — and any combination of four sharing one attribute wins the game. The catch is that you're always one step away from handing your opponent the winning piece. Beautifully crafted from solid wood, Quarto is as elegant on the shelf as it is on the table.

What's good?

• Deceptively deep strategy in a compact, elegant package
• Unique mechanic: your opponent chooses your piece, creating constant tension
• Solid wood construction — premium quality and a great gift
• Plays in around 20 minutes — sharp and satisfying without overstaying its welcome

Who is it for?

• ✔ Two-player households looking for a go-to strategy game
• ✔ Abstract strategy fans who enjoy games with elegant, surprising mechanics
• ✔ Anyone looking for a premium, gift-worthy game
• ✖ Not suited to groups of 3+ — strictly a two-player game

Standalone game — no other products required to play.

Pair with: Also available as Quarto Mini for travel. Browse our abstract strategy games for more titles that reward clever thinking.