Rocolex looks like a game about picking big numbers, but the players who win most often are the ones who think about what their pick gives away. Here are some ideas to try. If you need the rules first, see How to Play.
1. Every pick chooses your opponent's line
When you pick a square, the token lands there. Your opponent must now play from the line that square is in. So before you pick, ask two questions: how many points do I get? and what can my opponent do from there?
2. Count the reply, not only the pick
A 10 that lets your opponent take a 12 next is worth less than a 6 that leaves them only poor choices. Work out the difference between your score and theirs for the next two moves. A good habit is to compare each option with "my number minus their best reply".
3. Don't waste the big numbers early
The highest numbers are few. Each one sits on a row and a column that both players will need. If you can, make your opponent land in a line where the big number has already gone.
4. Know the traps
Negative numbers are not only bad. Sometimes taking a small loss sends the token to a line where your opponent has nothing but negative numbers, and you come out ahead. Likewise, a line with a single high number left in it is a trap for whoever sends the token there.
5. Think about the end
The game ends when the player whose turn it is has nothing left in their line. Late in the game, count how many squares are left in each line. Running your opponent out of moves while you still have some can be worth more than any one number.
6. Learn from your games
After a game, think about the turn where the lead changed. Was there a better square to pick? Playing against bots of different strengths is a good way to practise without any pressure. You can also build your own bot, which is a great way to find out how well you understand the game.
Where the maths comes in
Each turn is mental arithmetic with positive and negative whole numbers, adding and comparing, and each game is a small exercise in planning ahead and weighing risk. Teachers and parents can set up a private league for a class or a family with groups.