About the Game

What is Quaternity?
Quaternity is a modern mindsport for four players, played on a 12×12 board. It combines deep strategy with dynamic interaction, offering a unique experience beyond traditional games like chess.

How is Quaternity different from chess?
While inspired by chess, Quaternity adds complexity through four-player dynamics, shifting alliances, and a larger board. It emphasizes strategic collaboration and adaptive thinking.

How do you play Quaternity? What are the basic rules?
Each player controls a full set of pieces. The aim is to checkmate your opponents and be the last player standing. Alliances are informal and temporary, and positioning is key. A quick start guide is available on the site.

Is Quaternity a team game or an individual game?
It can be both. In education and tournaments, players often work in teams controlling one color — promoting collaboration and communication. Teams can also be formed by four or more individuals playing separately but scoring collectively for the team.

Can I play Quaternity online? Where can I start?
Yes. Our free online engine lets you play against friends, bots, or join open games. Visit play.quaternity.com to begin.

Learning & Education

Why is Quaternity used in schools and educational programs?
Because it turns strategic play into a learning tool. Quaternity strengthens reasoning, teamwork, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness — all vital 21st-century skills. It also makes learning environments fun, socially inclusive, and engaging.

What skills does Quaternity help develop in young people?
It fosters critical thinking, perspective-shifting, communication, patience, planning, and the ability to work with others in changing conditions.

Is there a curriculum or teaching guide available for educators?
Yes. We provide a structured rollout plan, an educator toolkit, and reflection materials to help teachers introduce the game effectively. The last two resources are currently in development.

How can my school or organization start a Quaternity program?
Contact us through the Contact Us page. We are excited to support schools with resources, training, and connections to the wider network.

What age groups is Quaternity suitable for?
It’s adaptable. Primary students to university-level learners can all engage meaningfully with Quaternity using age-appropriate formats.

The Project & Philosophy

What is the Quaternity Project?
It’s a global initiative built around the game of Quaternity — advancing education, cultural connection, and strategic play as tools for human development. The Quaternity Project is a family of coordinated companies with aligned goals.

What does it mean that Quaternity is a "mindsport of the 21st century"?
It reflects a shift toward intelligent, collaborative engagement — where strategy isn’t about domination, but about thoughtful, collective response. We reflect the shift away from the binary win/lose paradigm, and toward nurturing the skills to navigate complexity.

What is ‘Strategic Humanism’ and how is it reflected in the game?
Strategic Humanism is the idea that strategy should serve insight, connection, and growth. In Quaternity, every move has consequences for others — and success depends on an awareness of complexity and our connection to others.

What does it mean to be a good Quaternity player?
Beyond technical skill, a good player balances purpose, adaptability, and respect for others. They are able to navigate complexity and see both the board — and the people around it.

Is there a deeper purpose or philosophy behind the game?
Quaternity is not just about winning. It’s about learning how we think, how we work with others, and how play can reveal deeper truths.

Global Community & Structure

Where is Quaternity being played around the world?
Quaternity is active in schools, clubs, and programs across Europe, Brazil, India, the UK, Mongolia, Peru, Mexico, and more — with a growing international presence across all continents.

What is QCI (Quaternity Clubs International)?
QCI is the official Quaternity clubs organization. It coordinates clubs, tournaments, and community play, helping players connect, compete, and build the culture of the game worldwide.

How are clubs and tournaments organized? Can I join or start one?
Yes. Clubs can be started by registering with QCI. Tournaments are held both online and in person, including national and international events.

What is the Quaternity Foundation and what does it do?
The Foundation supports the project’s educational and cultural work. It handles donations, partnerships, and global outreach programs.

How is the Quaternity Project structured?
The project includes an LLC for operations, a Foundation for non-profit work, and QCI for clubs and community coordination — a family of defined companies, each with a distinct role.

Advanced & Expanding Horizons

What are QUA Scores and how does the ranking system work?
QUA stands for Quaternity Unit of Achievement. It reflects a player’s skill in online games played against three other human opponents. Official rankings are already live on the game engine, and we plan to expand the system into broader formats in future.

How is Quaternity connected to leadership training and team development?
Quaternity is used in leadership programs to develop decision-making, self-awareness, and group intelligence through structured play and reflection.

What kind of research has been done on Quaternity’s impact?
A 2024 study across seven schools in Brazil reported gains in reasoning, collaboration, and classroom engagement among over 150 students. More studies are underway.

How is art and culture integrated into the Quaternity world?
The Quaternity Project tries to include all aspects of the human mind. As Quaternity has inspired people in fields ranging from art to physics, we’re excited to be expanding our projects and engagement. Quaternity celebrates culture — from visual art and philosophy to storytelling and design. A Quaternity artwork was even included in a 2024 lunar mission.

What’s next for the Quaternity Project?
We’re expanding school programs, building AI bot opponents, launching new tournaments, and deepening cultural engagement — shaping a new global mindsport community.

Practical Questions

How can I get a Quaternity board?
Demand for official Quaternity boards is high, and we’re actively working to increase production. We prefer to manufacture locally where possible and are always open to new partners in different regions. If you're part of a school, club, or educational initiative, we offer discounts and support packages — just reach out through the Contact page.

Can I play Quaternity without a physical board?
Yes. The online engine at play.quaternity.com allows you to play from anywhere. It's a great way to learn the game, practice, or connect with other players globally.

Is there an app for playing Quaternity?
We’re currently developing a mobile-optimized experience. In the meantime, the online engine works well on tablets and larger phones through your browser.

How do I get involved in the Quaternity community?
You can join a local or online club, participate in tournaments, follow us on social media, or contribute to 4>2 Magazine. If you're interested in volunteering, hosting events, or starting a program, get in touch through the Contact page.

What if I want to bring Quaternity to a new country or region?
We welcome global partnerships and local leadership. If you're interested in introducing Quaternity to a new region — through schools, cultural centers, or clubs — we’re ready to support you. Contact us to explore what's possible.