Lacuna
Lacuna Rulebook
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Components
- 49 flowers (7 of each color)
- 12 pawns (6 gold, 6 silver)
- Cloth playing mat
- Graduated ruler
Setup
Each player takes 6 pawns of the same color. Randomly determine the first player. That player takes 1 flower of their choice and places it near them, in their scoring area.
Using the inner lid, pour the flowers from the game box onto the inner circle area of the playing mat. If any flowers fall outside this area, place them back inside the circle. Try to spread the flowers out evenly, without clustering them, dispersing them with your hands.
Gameplay
Taking turns, players place their pawns until all 12 pawns are on the playing mat.
To place a pawn, choose 2 flowers of the same color between which you can draw an imaginary straight line. This line must not be obstructed by other flowers or pawns. Then place one of your pawns anywhere along this line. Take these 2 flowers and place them near you, in your scoring area.
Note that a pawn does not need to be placed at the middle of the line: it can be placed anywhere along the line as long as the center of the pawn is on this imaginary line.
Placement examples
- A. If you place your pawn at the intersection of two pairs of flowers, you take only one pair of flowers (2), not both (4).
- B. Since the green flower does not obstruct the line connecting the centers of these two blue flowers, it is a valid placement.
- C. These flowers are not the same color.
- D. These flowers are the same color, but the line connecting their centers is obstructed.
- E. These flowers are the same color, but a previously placed pawn obstructs the line connecting their centers.
Collecting the Remaining Flowers
The game continues until both players have placed their 6 pawns (there will therefore be 12 pawns on the playing mat). You will notice that flowers remain on the playing mat.
The second part of the game begins. For each flower remaining on the playing mat, determine which player has the pawn closest to that flower. That player takes the flower and places it in their scoring area.
When it is difficult to determine which pawn is closest to a flower, consult the other player and use the graduated ruler. This part of the game works best as a conversation ("This flower is mine, right?"). If you prefer a more structured approach, handle each color formally, one by one.
Scoring
The player who collects the majority of the flowers (4+) of a color wins that color. The player who wins the majority of the colors (4+) wins the game!
In the example, the top player has won, because they have at least 4 flowers in at least 4 colors (red, pink, purple, and blue).
Frequently Asked Questions
What if a flower is equidistant from two pawns?
If a flower is equidistant from two pawns each belonging to a different player (even after checking the distances with the ruler), look at their second-closest pawn to decide. In the rare case where those are also the same distance from the flower, look at their third-closest pawn, and so on.
Can I slightly move a flower in order to better place my pawn?
No, it is forbidden to move flowers or previously placed pawns. If your pawn risks moving flowers or pawns, do not place it there. If this happens by accident, there is no penalty. Just make sure not to place it there.
What is considered an "unobstructed straight line" between two flowers of the same color?
You must be able to visually draw a straight line that passes through the centers of the two chosen flowers. If any doubt remains, you can place the graduated ruler on its edge and align it with the centers of the two flowers to check that no obstacle lies between them.
Can I collect 4 flowers if I place my pawn at the intersection of two pairs?
No, you can only collect 2 flowers per pawn you place. But note that by placing a pawn there, you block future placements, so it could still be a good strategy!
Can I wash the playing mat?
Yes! Please wash it by hand, in cold water with a mild detergent, then let it air dry.
Credits
- Design: Mark Gerrits
- Illustrations: Nick Liefhebber
- Sculptures: Lloyd3DProjects (Kévin Marks)
Published by CMYK.