4 Ancient Games We Still Play

CHESS

We've all heard of chess. But did you know it originated in India in about 600 B.C.? Of course it changed  through time and across various countries, but the game we play today is very similar to the original. Chess became popular in the 19th century. Now we can play it on our smart phones! Of course, it's always better in person.

HNEFATAFL

Before chess became popular, tafl, sometimes called hnefatafl, was the game to play. It was a favorite game among the Vikings. Depending on which player you are, the object of the game is either to capture the king or protect the king. It's a game with complex strategy. When we discovered it we loved it so much we laser engraved our own board. 

MANCALA

The earliest evidence of mancala shows up more than 3000 years ago in Africa. With simple rules, but complex strategy, mancala is now a favorite worldwide. Try your hand at it online, or you could even make your own board from an egg carton and marbles. See instructions at https://www.marbleskidsmuseum.org/make-your-own-mancala.

MAHJONG

So, technically, mahjong isn't ancient. It originated in China in the 1800's. This game of strategy and skill is played with tiles by families all over the world. Although there are regional variations, the basic object of the game is for a player to get all fourteen of their tiles into four sets and one pair.

Is there a favorite old game you like to play? Let us know and we'll look it up and give it a try!