Dobble Connect is an exhilarating blend of speed, strategy, and observation that offers a fresh twist on the classic Dobble game.
What is Dobble Connect?
In this fun, fast-paced party game, team up, spot the match, and align four cards in your colour to win! You'll have to be quick: everyone is playing simultaneously. Block your opponents and be the first team to reach your goal.
If you haven’t played the original Dobble board game, check it out here.
What is Dobble Connect’s age range?
The age range for Dobble Connect is aged eight and above.
Why not check out the Dobble Kids board game if you have younger children?
How many people can play Dobble Connect?
Designed for 2 to 8 players, this fast-paced game challenges players to quickly spot matching symbols and strategically place their cards to form a line of four in their chosen colour. Whether you're a seasoned Dobble enthusiast or new to the series, Dobble Connect promises hours of competitive fun.
What are the Dobble Connect rules
The primary goal in Dobble Connect is to be the first player or team to align four of your coloured cards in a row, column, or diagonal. This requires swift symbol recognition, strategic placement, and a keen awareness of opponents' moves. Each round is a race against time, with all players acting simultaneously, adding an exciting layer of intensity to the game.
What Dobble Connect components are there?
Your Dobble Connect game should include:
90 hexagonal Dobble Connect cards
Each card features 10 unique symbols. Notably, there is always one - and only one - matching symbol between any two cards.
Four coloured Dobble Connect decks
Orange, green, blue, and pink. Players or teams select one colour to represent their set of cards.
Black-bordered Dobble Connect starter cards
Used to initiate the gameplay and determine the first symbol to match.
How to set up Dobble Connect
Now you know the different Dobble Connect components, it’s time to organise them all so you can learn how to play Dobble Connect.
Organise the Dobble Connect cards
Separate the 90 cards into four piles based on their border colours: orange, green, blue, and pink. The black-bordered starter cards form a separate pile.
Form teams
Decide whether to play individually or in teams. If more than three people are playing, it's recommended that teams be formed. Each team selects one of the coloured piles (orange, green, blue, or pink) sits deck for the game.
Prepare the gaming area
Place one face-up black-bordered starter card in the centre of the table. This card will serve as the reference point for matching symbols. Each player or team takes their chosen coloured deck and places it face down in front of them.
To fully organise your gaming setup, see our board game accessories.
Playing Dobble Connect
Dobble Connect is played in real-time, with all players acting simultaneously.
Initiate the round
All players simultaneously flip over the top card from their coloured deck. They then search for the matching symbol between their card and the starter card in the centre.
Make a play
Upon identifying the matching symbol, a player announces its name and places their card adjacent to the starter card, aligning it along one of the six sides.
Players continue this process, flipping and playing cards, always looking for matching symbols between their current card and any card already on the table.
Cards cannot be placed on top of others; they must be placed alongside existing cards, utilising available spaces.
Form a line
The round concludes when a player or team aligns four of their coloured cards consecutively in a row, column, or diagonal. The player or team that achieves this first wins the round and earns a point.
How do you score Dobble Connect
You’ve played a round, but how do you know who has won?
How do you know if you have won a Dobble Connect round/ won points?
The player or team that forms a line of four cards in their colour collects the starter card, flipping it over to reveal a trophy symbol, which signifies a point.
Post-round actions
After each round, the winning team receives additional cards from each opposing team. The number of cards given increases with each subsequent point scored. For example, after scoring their first point, the winning team receives one card from each opponent; after the second point, two cards, and so on. These additional cards are shuffled into the winning team's deck, adding complexity to future rounds as they now have more cards to play with, some of which may be less favourable.
Ending Dobble Connect
The game continues with multiple rounds until a predetermined number of points is reached, as agreed upon by the players before starting. The player or team accumulating the required points first is declared the winner.
How to win Dobble Connect: Top tips
To enhance your chances of winning in Dobble Connect, consider the following strategies:
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Quick Symbol Recognition: Practice identifying matching symbols swiftly to gain an advantage over opponents.
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Strategic Placement: Place your cards in positions that block opponents from forming their lines while simultaneously working towards completing your own.
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Team Coordination: If you play in teams, communicate effectively with your teammates to plan moves and anticipate opponents' actions.
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Adaptability: Be prepared to adjust your strategy based on the evolving game state and the actions of other players.
Now you know how to win, find your local board game store to see where you can purchase Dobble Connect.
Common challenges whilst playing Dobble Connect & fixing them
Here are some common board game issues and tips for fixing them to ensure fun gameplay for everyone.
Sort out ground rules before the first card hits the table
Ensure all players understand and agree on any house rules before starting.
Pop a friendly referee in charge for tournament play
Designate someone to oversee the game and resolve any disputes that may arise.
Catch your breath between rounds to clear up any confusion
Take short breaks between rounds to discuss issues and clarify rules if necessary.
Fair play Dobble Connect rules
Everyone plays at once in Dobble Connect, so fair play is our best friend! Remember these golden rules: no skipping cards, and always place them next to (not on top of) existing ones.
Alternative Dobble Connect game modes
Looking to mix things up? Dobble Connect is flexible enough to accommodate various game styles. Whether you're playing with kids, in a competitive group, or just looking for a quicker round, here are some fun ways to keep things fresh:
Dobble Connect tournament mode
For larger gatherings, try tournament play! Organise several matches in a bracket format with knockout rounds. The team or player with the most points or fastest wins progresses to the next round. This setup is perfect for parties and family game nights where bragging rights are on the line.
Top tip: Time each round and keep a leaderboard to raise the stakes!
Dobble Connect speed mode
Feeling competitive? In Speed Mode, each team is given a time limit (e.g. 30 seconds per turn) to place their next card. If the timer runs out, they lose their turn, and the other players continue. It adds a sense of urgency and tests your ability to spot symbols quickly under pressure.
Dobble Connect cooperative mode
Do you prefer teamwork over competition? In this mode, players work together to see how quickly they can build a shared four-in-a-row, regardless of colour. Try to beat your best time, or add challenges like doing it blindfolded and having a teammate describe the symbols.
Frequently asked questions
Can more than four players play without forming teams?
You can, but it is recommended that you form teams with more than four players. Teaming up balances gameplay and keeps the pace lively since each colour has a fixed number of cards.
Can I place a card if I can’t find a matching symbol?
No. You must find the correct matching symbol between your card and any already on the board. There is always one match between any two cards.
What happens if two players place a card simultaneously?
That’s part of the chaos and fun. If both cards are valid (correct match and correct placement), they can both stay. If not, remove the incorrect one.
Can you place a card diagonally?
Absolutely. As long as it touches a flat edge of a card already in play and the symbol match is correct, diagonal placements are valid and often the key to sneaky wins.
What if someone accidentally places a card incorrectly?
If caught, simply remove the card. There is no penalty unless you're playing in a competitive format where you might add one (like skipping the next turn or drawing a card from your team's deck).
Dobble Connect tips for beginners
Getting into Dobble Connect can be fast and easy, but mastering it requires observation and planning. Here are some beginner-friendly tips to help you dive in:
Start slow
Don’t worry about speed right away. Take your time to learn the symbols and understand how to spot matches quickly.
Practice with fewer Dobble Connect cards
Try playing with a smaller deck to familiarise yourself with the icons. The more you play, the faster your brain recognises common patterns.
Use the process of elimination
If you're stuck, scan the cards on the table and eliminate symbols individually. This can help you narrow down your options faster.
Be Patient
It’s common to miss an obvious match in the heat of the moment. Stay calm and try scanning the cards from different angles; sometimes, just flipping your card helps you see the game faster.
Now that you’re ready to master Dobble Connect, why not explore more fast-paced family games?
Check out Dobble Connect at your local board game store
Dobble Connect is more than just a matching game. It’s a brilliant balance of observation, strategy, and a dash of friendly chaos.
Because of its quick setup, short round times, and engaging gameplay, Dobble Connect is an ideal addition to any game night, family gathering, or casual hangout. With modes to suit all types of players and skill levels, it’s no surprise Dobble has earned its place as a fan favourite, and Connect takes it to the next level.
Contact our friendly team today for further information about the games Asmodee has available.
