First Impressions
The Brunswick Fortera Intrigue turns heads with its deep purple and gold pearl design. At the center works the asymmetric Fortera Flip Core, which shows a 2.505 RG, a strong 0.052 differential and a 0.012 intermediate differential. This core is wrapped in the Fortify Pearl Reactive coverstock, finished with a high-gloss polish (Royal Compound). The medium RG lets the core rotate securely, which in combination with the smooth cover should let the ball pass through the heads effortlessly and produce a massive, asymmetric angular move off the backend.
Comparison
In a direct comparison with the Brunswick Fortera Exile, which also uses a pearl cover, the Intrigue shows a somewhat sharper and more dominant reaction at the breakpoint thanks to slight cover adjustments. Compared to the Storm Snap Lock, the Fortera Intrigue behaves very similarly, but the core often generates a somewhat more consistent change of direction in the dry. When the transition sets in over the course of a session and friction on the outside boards increases, the extremely strong pearl surface stores energy perfectly.
On the Lanes
The Brunswick Fortera Intrigue was developed for use on medium lane conditions. It allows you to generate the necessary hook even from deep angles to cross the boards effectively. The asymmetric core should optimize carry through a steady, heavy and consistent entry angle into the pocket. For extremely dry conditions this ball is completely unplayable; it overreacts immediately. On very heavy oil, on the other hand, it slides too far through.