In AQUA, the heart of gameplay lies in the strategic placement of paintings. As players take on the roles of rival curators, each move must be carefully calculated to maximize their preferred alignment—whether vertical or horizontal—while also disrupting their opponent's strategy. The grid-based system requires players to think several steps ahead, predicting how their choices will influence the overall exhibit. This feature not only encourages tactical decision-making but also adds layers of depth as players balance their artistic vision with the need to outmaneuver their opponent. Each placement can shift the dynamics of the game, creating a constant tension between creativity and competition.