Designer Diary: Choconnect

By Sandro Blasich

The journey of board game design often begins with passion and creativity. For Sandro Blasich, that journey started over a decade ago during a visit to SPIEL Essen, where he felt as if he had entered a chocolate factory. Inspired by other designers pitching their games, he decided to embark on his own path in board game creation.

Despite facing challenges and initial setbacks, including unsuccessful pitches in 2017, Sandro’s enthusiasm remained unwavering. New ideas continued to flow, leading him to design a game purely for personal enjoyment. Encouraged by a friend who recognized its potential, he eventually decided to pitch this creation, resulting in a contract. However, the publication process took several years, a journey that Sandro plans to share in future entries.

During this time, Sandro connected with fellow designers in his hometown. A panel discussion led him to meet Vedran, who was planning to establish a publishing house. After showcasing his prototype for Choconnect, Vedran expressed interest, and in 2024, he launched Snovid Games, debuting at SPIEL Essen with three games, including Choconnect.

Key Features of Choconnect

  • Game Type: Abstract tile-laying/pushing game
  • Theme: Players assume the role of chocolatiers arranging chocolates
  • Gameplay Mechanics:
    • Players draw tiles randomly from a cloth bag
    • Three different types of tiles represent various chocolates
    • Tiles can only be placed on the outer edges of the board
    • Existing tiles can be slid, but cannot move off the board
  • Winning Conditions:
    • Three in a row for dark chocolate
    • Four in a row for milk chocolate
    • Five in a row for white chocolate
  • Visual Design: Illustrated by Maja Benčić, ensuring a delightful aesthetic

Sandro’s design philosophy often starts with game mechanics, followed by thematic development. The concept for Choconnect was inspired by an intriguing mechanic from the game Labyrinth. He envisioned a twist on the classic game Connect 4, but with a dynamic board where players slide tiles to strategize and adapt their moves. The theme of chocolates was a nod to his first experience at SPIEL Essen, complemented by his wife’s enthusiasm for sweets.

Choconnect offers a unique blend of strategy, foresight, and creativity, making it an engaging choice for board game enthusiasts. As players navigate the colorful world of chocolate tiles, they not only enjoy the gameplay but also the visual appeal crafted by Maja Benčić.

In conclusion, Choconnect stands as a testament to Sandro Blasich’s dedication to game design and innovation. With its captivating mechanics and charming theme, it promises a delightful experience for players of all ages, inviting them to step into the shoes of a chocolatier and create their own sweet victories.

Via BoardGameGeek Blog