Objective
The objective of Shax is to capture all the opponent's pieces or create a situation where the opponent can no longer make a move.
Game Components
Shax is played on a specialized board with a 3x8 grid (intersection points of the lines) and 24 game pieces, 12 of each color for each player.
Setup
- The board is placed between the players.
- Each player takes their 12 pieces of one color.
Gameplay
The game consists of two main phases: the placement phase and the movement phase.
Placement Phase
- Players take turns placing one of their pieces on any free point on the board.
- The goal is to form a "line of three" pieces in an unbroken line. This can be horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
- A line of three pieces is called a "Shax".
- Once all pieces are placed, the movement phase begins.
Movement Phase
- Jumping is not allowed. A player can move one of their pieces horizontally or vertically to an adjacent empty point.
- The goal remains to form "Shaxes."
- When a Shax is formed, the player can remove one of the opponent's pieces that is not part of a Shax from the board.
- A player who is left with only two pieces or unable to make a move loses the game.
Strategy Tips
- Aim to create multiple opportunities to form Shaxes, which allows more freedom in removing opponent's pieces.
- Block your opponent by interrupting their potential Shax formations.
- Think ahead to better prepare for the movement phase and position your pieces strategically.
End of the Game
The game ends when a player: 1. Cannot place or move pieces anymore. 2. Is left with only two pieces on the board and thus cannot form any more Shaxes.
Enjoy playing Shax!
