Gobblers

About this board game

Gobblers is a two-player abstract game that takes about 5 minutes to play, challenging opponents to form three matching pieces in a row on a 3×3 board.

All pieces begin off the board. On your turn, you may either bring one piece into play or move one piece already on the board to another spot where it fits. Because pieces can nest inside one another, a larger piece can cover any smaller piece, changing which pieces are visible and which lines are possible.

The objective is to create a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal row of three pieces in your color. The compact board keeps the action focused, while the nesting system creates surprises: a piece that looks like part of your row may be hiding an opponent’s color underneath.

• For 2 players
• Approximately 5 minutes per game
• 3×3 playing board
• Nesting pieces that can cover smaller pieces
• Horizontal, vertical, and diagonal winning lines

Memory is central to Gobblers. Before moving a large piece, you must remember which color it is covering, since lifting it may reveal a piece that changes the position completely.

There is also a special rule for an unexpected reveal. If lifting your piece uncovers an opponent’s piece that completes a three-in-a-row, you do not immediately lose. You cannot return your piece to its starting location, but you may place it over one of the opponent’s other two pieces in that row if possible, allowing the game to continue.

Released in 2003, Gobblers combines simple placement rules with quick tactical decisions and a demanding memory test.