For people who like spatial puzzles, this is a winner. My husband and I have the magnetic version (not available in the US). It's up on our fridge, and we always have a game in progress.

The 2 - 4 player game:

Each person chooses a color. There are four total colors. (The pieces are six sided, with three lines of different colors crossing each.) The goal is to make the longest line or largest loop of your color. Loops are double points, but MUCH more difficult to accomplish.

Each person plays a piece then takes one to replenish their playable pieces. A piece must be played next to a piece already played, and the color of the lines must match. In other words, a yellow line can't suddenly become blue as it crosses to your new play.

Their are also forced spaces (and controlled sides) to be considered. Anytime a three sided space, or a "forced space," is created, it must be filled. So, if I play a piece that creates a three sided space, I need to fill it if I can. If I cannot, then the next player must fill it before making his/her regular play. This tactic is used to basically take extra turns, or force another player to play a piece that benefits your line. I've had turns where I've played a half dozen pieces, just because filling one forced space created another, and I could fill them all!

A controlled side is a side that has a forced space at one end. You cannot play on a controlled side. Basically, you can't play somewhere that may eventually create a four sided space. Nor can you play a piece that would make three lines of the same color enter into a space, as that is impossible to fill.

I know the description sounds a bit dry, but this is a compelling game. As soon as we finish one, we clear the game and start again. For people who like puzzles, or spatial games, or a little problem solving or stragegy, Tantrix is for you!

The Solitare game:

It's not often that a game is good for one to four players. I love the multi-player game. But Tantrix is also a great solitare game!

All of the pieces have a unique number on the back, in different colors. The basic solitar game starts you off with numbers 1 through 3. The color of the last number tells you what color loop you should be able to make with those pieces. Once you solve 1- 3 (which is exceedingly easy), then you add number four and start over. Once you solve that, add number 5, then number 6, and so on.

As I'm sure you've guessed, the puzzle becomes increasingly more challenging. The rule book also provides several different mega-challenges. And, if that still doesn't satisfy you, you can find even more challenges on thier website (tantrix.com or .co.uk, I don't recall which).

Either as a multi-player or solitare game, Tantrix will give you hours of challenging, problem solving, strategy type of fun.