Kluster Board Game Review
Kluster is a magnetic dexterity game designed by Paula Henning and Robert Henning, published by Borderline Editions in 2018. This compact party game challenges 1-4 players to place magnetic stones inside a rope boundary without triggering a chain reaction. Games last 10-20 minutes, and the recommended age is 14+. This review covers gameplay, components, and whether Kluster deserves a spot in your collection.
Kluster Game Overview
Kluster strips board gaming down to its most basic elements. Players receive an equal share of magnetic stones and take turns placing them one at a time inside an area marked by a cord.
The goal is simple: be the first to get rid of all your magnets. The catch? If stones snap together during your turn, you collect them all. This creates tension with every placement as the play area fills with increasingly volatile magnetic fields.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Designer | Paula Henning, Robert Henning |
| Publisher | Borderline Editions |
| Year Released | 2018 |
| Players | 1-4 |
| Age Range | 14+ |
| Playing Time | 10-20 minutes |
| Game Type | Dexterity, Party Game, Abstract Strategy |
| Complexity Rating | 1.01 / 5 (Very Light) |
What’s in the Kluster Box
Kluster comes in a compact package measuring 4 x 3 x 1.5 inches. The entire game weighs about 590 grams, making it highly portable for travel or game nights away from home.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Stones | 24 oblong-shaped neodymium magnets with smooth coating |
| Cord | Adjustable rope to create the playing boundary |
| Storage Pouch | Fabric bag for storing components |
The magnets feel solid and durable. Their oblong shape adds unpredictability since they can roll or flip when placed. The cord allows players to adjust the play area size, increasing or decreasing difficulty.
Kluster Pros and Cons
Pros
- Rules explained in under one minute
- Highly portable for travel and outdoor play
- Creates genuine tension and laughter
- Works with mixed age groups and skill levels
- No setup time required beyond laying out the cord
- Adjustable difficulty through cord size
Cons
- Strong magnets can damage electronics if stored nearby
- Limited strategic depth for serious gamers
- Magnets occasionally chip after repeated play
- Best played on flat, stable surfaces only
How to Play Kluster
Setup
Form the cord into a closed shape on a flat surface. Any shape works, though circles and ovals are most common. Distribute magnetic stones equally among all players.
Gameplay
On your turn, place one magnet inside the cord boundary. You must release the magnet completely before your turn ends. If any magnets snap together or fly out of bounds during your placement, collect all involved magnets and add them to your supply.
Winning
The first player to place all their magnets wins. Games typically last 10-20 minutes depending on player count and the boundary size chosen.
Kluster Game Mechanics
Kluster uses real physics as its primary mechanism. The magnetic fields create invisible hazards across the play area. Players must read these fields and find safe placement zones.
Positioning matters more than speed. Placing a magnet near existing stones risks triggering a chain reaction. The oblong shape means magnets can pivot or roll after placement, adding randomness to careful planning.
The adjustable cord introduces area control elements. A smaller boundary increases collision chances. Some groups play with irregular shapes to create chokepoints and safe zones.
Where to Buy Kluster
| Retailer | Availability |
|---|---|
| Amazon | Usually in stock |
| Noble Knight Games | Check availability |
| Zatu Games | Ships to UK/EU |
| eBay | New and used listings |
| BoardGameGeek GeekMarket | User marketplace |
Who Should Play Kluster
Kluster works best as a filler game between heavier titles or as a party game for casual gatherings. The 14+ age rating exists due to strong magnets rather than complexity. Supervised children can play safely.
Players who enjoy cooperative board games might find Kluster too competitive. However, team variants work well for those preferring collaborative play.
Skip Kluster if you want deep strategy or long play sessions. This game thrives on quick rounds and physical tension rather than complex decision trees. If you enjoyed games like Jenga or Ice Cool, Kluster offers similar tactile satisfaction with magnetic twists.
FAQ
Is Kluster good for beginners?
Kluster is excellent for beginners. The rules take less than a minute to explain. Place a magnet without causing others to snap together. That’s it. No complex scoring or turn phases to track.
How long does Kluster take to play?
Most games finish within 10-20 minutes. Smaller play areas end faster due to increased collision risk. With four players, expect games closer to 20 minutes as more magnets crowd the space.
What’s the best player count for Kluster?
Kluster plays well at all counts from 2-4. Three players offers the best balance between turn frequency and board tension. Two players works for quick head-to-head matches.
Is Kluster worth buying?
Kluster delivers strong value for its price point. The portable size, instant setup, and universal appeal make it useful for many situations. It earned a 2020 Guldbrikken Best Parlor Game nomination.
What games are similar to Kluster?
Similar dexterity games include Jenga, Ice Cool, and Suspend. Kluster Duo offers a two-player focused variant. KLASK uses magnets differently in a hockey-style format for those wanting more magnetic gameplay.
