Tabletop Game Review: Dimension

Dimension

KOSMOS

Playtime: 30 minutes

1-4 Players

We recently wrote a review of Ubongo Extreme, a 2D tile-placing puzzle game published by KOSMOS. KOSMOS has always specialized in learning experiences. Ubongo Extreme does a fine job of teaching problem solving and pattern building. Dimension takes those same mechanics and puts them on a 3D plane instead. Dimension is a fast-paced experience that challenges its players to solve a puzzle while following a specific set of rules.

The rules of Dimension are simple. Every player gets a set of spheres that they will place and stack on a tray. There are three black, white, blue, green, and orange balls. Players will want to place as many balls as possible onto the tray within a set amount of time. The catch is that there are a set of rules that apply to every player. Some rules stipulate that two spheres of a specific color need to touch, while others show what balls must be stacked on each other. Some indicate that players are to keep certain colors away from each other. Others stipulate a specific number of a certain color present on the tray.

The game rewards players for placing as many balls as possible on the tray while also following the rules. Scoring varies based on quantity and rules followed, forcing players to balance quantity and quality. The rules and gameplay are simple and allow for players of all ages to enjoy Dimension.

Dimension features six short rounds, allowing for players to enjoy multiple games within an hour. The quick games combined with the simple rules make it a fantastic game for casual gamers to sink their time into. The fast and easy setup reinforces this. It’s a game that anyone can learn and benefit from. The rules support the development of problem-solving and pattern recognition. This makes it a great game for children. Everyone plays at the same time, making it more desirable for children since no one has to wait for their turn.

The 3D play area makes Dimension especially enjoyable for younger audiences. The use of balls makes the game much more engaging. Blocks are usually cubic, so the spherical shape of the building blocks gives Dimension a unique appearance. There aren’t any board games that look like Dimension.

The components themselves are of great quality. The spheres are solid, with a good weight to all of them. The cards are thick and easy to maintain too. The simple but well-made components ensure that the game will last. They also look great on the table. The theme is pretty abstract, so there isn’t anything too flashy in Dimension besides the unique shape of the building blocks. The theme might bore some, but there will also be people who like the minimalist look.

Fans of strategy games will love how little luck is involved in Dimension. Everyone abides by the same rules, ensuring that no player will be dealt a bad hand. The entire experience is built around quick thinking and problem-solving. so those who specialize in this will almost always succeed in Dimension. Fortunately, losing never feels too bad in this game since everyone can still enjoy the game all the way through. The experience is never ruined by being behind on the scoreboard.

Dimension is an enjoyable experience that’s suitable for all ages. Anyone looking for a game with nice, simple aesthetics and engaging puzzles will want to check this one out.