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Exceptional consensus · 4 organizations
Cascadia
Best for: Families, solo gamers, nature lovers, puzzle enthusiasts
ATTASpiel des JahresIGA
1–445mLight
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Award winner · 1 organizationSee buying options →
Calico
Kevin Russ · AEG / Flatout · 2020
Sew a quilt by placing hexagonal fabric patches to attract cats that like specific patterns. Score by matching colors in groups, completing specific button patterns, and satisfying finicky cat preferences. A cozy theme hiding a genuinely difficult spatial puzzle.
Players
1–4
Time
45 min
Ages
10+
Difficulty
Medium
Why you'll like it
- The cat theme is irresistible
- The spatial puzzle is surprisingly challenging
- Beautiful fabric-pattern artwork
- Works well solo through 4 players
- Multiple scoring layers create depth
How it plays
Calico is a puzzle game about sewing a quilt and attracting cats. On your turn you place one hexagonal patch from your hand onto your quilt board, then draw a new one from the market.
Patches have colors and patterns. Groups of matching patterns attract cats, which score points, and groups of matching colors earn buttons. Design goal tiles reward specific arrangements. It's a clever, cozy puzzle that's harder than it looks.
May not be for you if…
- Can be frustratingly difficult to score well
- Very limited player interaction
- Analysis paralysis from overlapping scoring goals
- The cute theme belies a brain-burner
Best for
Puzzle fanscat loverssolo gamers
Awards
- 2021ATTAStrategy
Where to buy
- AmazonCheck price →
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Common questions
How long does Calico take?
About 45 minutes once everyone knows the rules.
How many people can play Calico?
It plays 1 to 4 players, including a solo mode.
What age is Calico for?
The publisher recommends ages 10 and up.
If you like Calico, try
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Exceptional consensus · 5 organizations
Azul
Best for: Families, gateway gamers, mixed experience groups, couples
Spiel des JahresMensa SelectAs d'Or
2–445mLight
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Highly awarded
Harmonies
Best for: Puzzle fans, solo gamers, nature lovers, spatial thinkers
Swiss Gamers AwardGolden Geek
1–430mMedium
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Award winner
The Isle of Cats
Best for: Cat lovers, puzzle fans, families (family mode), drafting fans
Dice Tower
1–490mMedium
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