Zendo (An Icehouse Game by Kory Heath
Every now and then a game comes along that is true genius. Well, in this case we've been struck by lightning twice. The game Zendo is true genius, and the gaming system it was built in is also a truly unique and wonderful slice of genius.
During play test of this game there was unanimous agreement that this game was great. Each participant had his or her own take on why the game was great. All of which adds up to one unmistakable conclusion: for the demographic which we represent this game is a winner on many fronts.
Yes, in spite of the glowing reports on this game, we should admit that we can't say this game is for everyone.
It might be, but we don't know. For example, I'm not sure how this game would work at an after game party following the Super Bowl. Don't get me wrong, I love the Super Bowl. I think the way the pitchers are able to control the ball is simply wonderful and my hat is definitely off to the guy that stands alone at the other end of the field guarding the net by blocking the ball with his body. If it wasn't for the guys hitting each other over the head with sticks I might enjoy the game more. Maybe if those dudes in the zebra uniforms gave out more yardage penalties for holding it would clean up the game. But... I digress.
My point was simply this: without actually trying to play this game at a drunken beer bash we can't be sure how semi-comatose folks will enjoy it.
However, on most any occasion when drinking one's self into a stupor is not the primary goal, this game should be a hit. And, if you have any intention of becoming involved in spiritual gaming then this game is a must.
We have made this game a constant at our spiritual gaming nights -- this along with the traditional Monotony game. We reserve at least a half-hour or so to play at least a little Zendo each gathering.
This game works on so many levels. One thing "The Any Game Cookbook" teaches us is that any game can be used for spiritual gaming. That said there are still games that work better than others. And this is one of those games.
However, in addition to being an excellent arena for the use of recipes from "The Any Game Cookbook" this game has several direct benefits.
- Team work. Even though individuals are working to "be the one" that discovers the rule behind the koans, there is a tremendous amount of group work. The actions of your fellows has a direct and immediate effect upon your condition. This is always a nice recipe for friction and blending both.
- Streaching the mental bounds. This game is a good device for exercising those often under-used mental muscles.
- Learning to think sideways. A straight-forward plodding approach to solving these koans will definitely take a back seat to out-of-left field inspiration.
- Working within a local concensus. Even though this game inspires unique and individual efforts it is a must to understand where others are coming from if you are going to incorporate their contributions.
- Multi-level communication.
According to Nancy, who happens to be getting ready for the California Bar Exam, there are several sections of the exam for which Zendo is excellent preparation. She is recommending it to her law school study group.
The box suggests the game is best for:
- 3-6 Players
- Ages 8+
- 10-60 minutes
We found 8 players just fine. And we have a 5 year old in our midst that will do just fine with this game. So take the above as guide lines.
Overall Zendo receives high marks in most any category you may suggest -- with a few minor exceptions. For example, if you are looking for a rokus romp with lots of screaming, yelling, and back-slapping hilarity this is not the game. (We've played and loved several of those games. They're under review too. Depending upon when you read this they may be listed in the left-hand menu.).
Zendo is more contemplative and a thoughtful game. In fact the name Zendo is excellent since the other occasion when I've shared a room with a group in such a state of intense contemplation has been sitting Zen.
