Quick Answer

Square One is a fast-paced, engine-building strategy game for 1-4 players. Setup takes about 5 minutes, and the rules are easy to learn.

Understanding the Basics

Square One is a standalone game, not an expansion. It shares the tactile piece-completing mechanic with Project L but introduces new engine-building layers that change how you plan your turns. If you've played Project L, you'll recognize the core loop, but the scoring and combo systems are entirely new.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I set up Square One?

Unfold the game board. Each player takes a player board and a set of pieces in their color. Shuffle the sequence cards and place them face down. Place the scoring tokens and combo tokens nearby. Each player draws 3 sequence cards to start.

What are the basic rules?

On your turn, you choose one sequence card from your hand. Place the required pieces on your player board to complete the pattern. If you complete the pattern, you score points and may trigger a combo. Then draw a new card. Play continues clockwise. Completing a pattern immediately scores points and may let you take an extra action.

How does scoring work?

Each completed sequence card shows a point value. Add that to your score. Some cards have bonus conditions (e.g., using all your pieces in one turn) that award extra points. The game ends when a player reaches the target score (usually 20 points for a short game, 30 for a standard game).

What happens when I trigger a combo?

Some sequence cards have a combo icon. When you complete that card, you may immediately play another card from your hand for free. This can chain into multiple actions in one turn. Combos are the key to high scores. Plan your hand to set up combo chains for maximum efficiency.

Can I play solo?

Yes. In solo mode, you play against a timer or try to beat your own high score. The rules are the same, but you draw from a single deck and aim to reach the target score in as few turns as possible.

What if I run out of pieces?

You never run out of pieces. Each player has a personal set. If you need a piece that is already on your board, you must rearrange your existing pieces or choose a different card. Planning ahead is part of the strategy. Managing your piece placement is a core skill. Don't lock yourself into a dead end.

Product Facts

  • Square One: Square One is a fast-paced, engine-building strategy game for 1-4 players. Just like its predecessor Project L, its easy-to-learn yet hard-to-master mechanics offer high replayability for the whole family. This means you can teach the game in under 10 minutes, but the strategic depth keeps each session fresh, making it a great choice for family game nights or solo play.

    Square One

    Square One