COMPARE
VS
★ BATTLESHIP WINS
BATTLESHIP VS CONNECT FOUR
2
PLAYERS
2
15–30 min
PLAY TIME
5–15 min
7+
AGE
6+
1.2 / 5
COMPLEXITY
1.0 / 5
Clifford Von Wickler (original 1931 pencil-and-paper)
DESIGNER
Howard Wexler
1931
YEAR
1974
6.9 / 10
COMMUNITY SCORE
6.7 / 10
BATTLESHIP VERDICT
More strategy than its reputation suggests, but a one-trick experience. Good for a single 20-minute session, exhausted after five.
CONNECT FOUR VERDICT
Solved by computer in 1988 — first player always wins with perfect play. Still a wonderful first strategy game for kids, terrible for adults who know the centre-column rule.
BATTLESHIP
✓ PROS
- Real probability strategy emerges at intermediate skill
- Parity hunting (only target same-color squares) doubles your hit rate
- Cheap, fast, no setup beyond hiding ships
- Universal recognition — anyone can play
✗ CONS
- Pure luck dominates the first 5–10 shots
- Replayability is thin — same game every time
- No catch-up mechanism if opponent gets early hits
CONNECT FOUR
✓ PROS
- Teaches 2D pattern recognition under a 60-second teach
- Travel-friendly versions exist (peg-board, magnetic)
- Genuine 'aha' moment for kids when they spot a fork
- Quick enough to play 5 games in 30 minutes
✗ CONS
- First-player advantage is overwhelming if both players know the centre rule
- Game is mathematically solved — no remaining strategic depth for adults
- Stalemates happen when both players know optimal defence
★ WHICH ONE FOR YOU?
- CONNECT FOURMore modern design (1974 vs 1931)
