Objective of the Game
The goal of Rabouge is to skillfully place and move playing pieces to either capture all the opponent's pieces or block them so that they can't make any more moves.
Game Components
- Game Board: A square grid usually consisting of 49 spaces (7x7).
- Game Pieces: Each player has an equal number of pieces in their color.
Setup
- Place the board between the players.
- Each player selects a color and takes the corresponding pieces.
- Players alternate placing their pieces in a starting row at the edge of the board.
Gameplay
Rabouge is played in rounds with players taking turns:
- Objective: Reach the opponent's opposite starting row or eliminate the opponent's pieces.
- Piece Movement: A player can move their piece either orthogonally or diagonally by one space.
- Capturing: If an opponent's piece is orthogonally or diagonally adjacent to a player's piece with an empty space directly beyond it, the player's piece can jump over and capture the opponent's piece (similar to checkers).
- Multiple Jumps: If after a capture a subsequent jump is possible, the player may perform it within the same turn. However, players are not obliged to make all possible jumps in a turn.
- Blocking: A player can win by restricting the opponent so that the opponent can no longer make any legal move.
Special Rules
- Strategic Play: Positioning is critical for future moves. Attempt to create chain reactions allowing for multiple jumps.
- Defensive Play: Sometimes it's wise to hold back a piece to initiate blockades or shield your own line.
Winning Conditions
- A player wins by capturing all of the opponent's pieces or if the opponent cannot make any legal moves.
Tips
- Avoid isolating your pieces to retain flexible movement options.
- Use the opportunity for combo moves to capture multiple opponent pieces in one turn.
This traditional game is easy to learn but offers enough strategic depth to engage even experienced players. Enjoy the game!
