Conic

About this board game

Conic is a number-reveal board game for 2–4 players, with play lasting about 30 minutes. Released in 2024, it is a remake of Catena, originally designed by Reiner Knizia and released in 1992.

Each round, players reveal discs simultaneously. The player who reveals the highest number may place the disc, creating a direct contest in which every reveal can affect who gets to act.

The game’s central tension comes from its limited supply of usable discs. All discs are used up except for the “0,” so losing a contest has consequences beyond missing the chance to place a disc.

• Simultaneous disc reveals keep the outcome uncertain until everyone has committed.
• The highest revealed number determines who may place the disc.
• Players must manage their power as discs are gradually used up.
• Losing means you cannot place a disc and lose your power.

This creates a constant balance between restraint and risk. Players may need to conserve their power during one moment, then become aggressive when a crucial opportunity appears. Choosing when to push for the highest number—and when to hold back—is at the heart of the experience.

Conic also updates its predecessor with artwork changed to appeal to a wider range of modern players. Its rules have been changed as well, providing more depth of play while preserving the thrilling uncertainty of simultaneous reveals.

With its combination of limited resources, sharp competition, and changing priorities, Conic offers a compact contest for players who enjoy tense decisions and the challenge of managing power at exactly the right time.