The Game of Pico

THE GAME OF PICO is an abstract puzzle game for two players that needs any type/size of square board and also pawns of 3 different colors. My combination of choice is the chessboard and colored plastic cups from water and soda bottles (but that's just me). Each player controls six pawns and also there is a seventh pawn, called 'the Pico', that is controlled by both players.

 

How to win

To win there are TWO basic scenarios available :

1. Form a square with your OWN pawns :

2. Form a line of four-in-a-row including PICO (horizontal, vertical or diagonal) :

How to Play

In each round the player can place a pawn for the first time wherever he wants or can move placed pawns or Pico for one spot on the board in all directions (horizontal, vertical or diagonal) :

The only restriction on the movement of the pawns or Pico is that it is not allowed to move back and forth from where they were on their previous move prohibiting endless loops.

Pico's special moves

Pico can move in all directions (as any other pawn) but can also change position with the pawns of the player who handles it if one spot away :

Setup

Initial setup starts by placing Pico anywhere near the center of the board :

Download "The Game of Pico Booklet" and enjoy responsibly.