Racing Snake Game

Racing Snake Tabletop Game
Race your snakes to celebrate the Year of the Snake!

Game Objective:
Each player controls a station at opposite ends of the track. By rotating the handle, players move their snakes from the starting point to the finish line. The first snake to cross the finish line wins!

Track Customization:
The track's shape can be customized since each segment is modular and can be repeated or connected in various ways.

3D Printing Instructions:

• Materials:
  • Use PETG for all moving parts as they require durability and strength.
  • Use PLA/PLA+ for the shell and handle if you like.
• Printing Plates:
  • Plate 1: Straight track segment – print 3 times.
  • Plate 2 & Plate 3: Mirrored U-turn segments – print once each.
  • The default track shown in the picture consists of 3 straight tracks and 2 U-turns combined.
  • Each track requires 12 gears. Each handle station requires 1 standard gear and 1 smaller specialized gear, totaling 62 standard gears plus 2 smaller gears.
  • Gently squeeze the snake right after removing it from the print plate to ensure the joints are free and flexible.
• Customization:
  • Feel free to create your own track layout using the three track segment types. You can print a single track on plate 1 for experiments first.
  • Be cautious of excessive track length, as it may increase friction and reduce smooth rotation. Eventually it stucks.

Assembly Instructions:

Important: The pieces are designed for a tight fit, especially the guided track covers on the track. Once installed, they can be difficult to remove and may require a prying tool. Before attaching the guided track covers, ensure the gears rotate freely and confirm the guided track is correctly oriented.

If you're unsure about the orientation during assembly, refer to the following figure for guidance. The simple rule is: the "teeth" on the guiding cover should always face the same direction, opposite to the snake's movement direction.

1. Assemble the Straight Track Segments: Connect the straight track pieces together.

   

2. Assemble the U-turn Segments: Attach the mirrored U-turn pieces. Connecting each segments using the connectors provided. There are two types of connectors, the square one are used in center of U-turn to connect 3 pieces (1 U-turn 2 straight) together.

1. Install the Rotation Stations: Secure the handle stations at each end of the track. A small stake, printed horizontally, is included for added strength. Insert the stake fully into the pipe opening on the base, ensuring it reaches the bottom. The top of the stake should sit flush with the opening so you know it is inserted to the bottom.

   

You're ready to race! Let the snakes slither to victory!

(additional notes: I have reiterate the design many times for strength, it appears sturdy enough but too much force always possible to break plastics. Occasionally, snake may fall off the track if rotating too hard, but that is part of the fun I think.)