A Game of Marbles (Abalone)

Normally this would be a small flavor text involving either the setting of the game, or some joke about the mechanics.  However, I've decided to forego that and just introduce you to this game, with a pronunciation so unusual it makes me glad I just have to type it.  So, ladies, gentlemen, and everyone else, I introduce to you a game I became skilled at over the summer: Abalone. 



GAME DESCRIPTION:  Abalone is a marble based game for 2 players published by Abalone Games in 1987.  Each turn, a player moves a set of up to 3 marbles to push the opponents off the board.

GAMEPLAY:  Each turn, a player may move 1, 2, or 3 marbles.  They may either push them in a line, or move any in a columnt sideways, keeping them together.  Players may also push opponents marbles, but only if there are more of the players marbles pushing.  Players cannot push equal or superior number.

WINNING:  When a marble is pushed off the board, it is captured.  When a player has captured 6 Marbles, the player wins.



CONCLUSION:  Normally, I like to review games that at least look or feel different than your typical roll and push or high strategy Chess like games.  Abalone easily feels like it could be a game from the early years of human history, like Chess or Go.  It creates a simple premise with no chance for luck, only pure skill and strategy.  In terms of difficulty, I would put it a lot lighter than Chess or Go, but it's definitely more difficult than any variation of Checkers or Chinese Checkers I've played.  Now, due to the game feeling like a strategy game, I say that this should be in every household, as even kids can learn it, and it isn't difficult to learn, but can provide both children and parents an enjoyable game.