Objective of the Game

Rubiks Mill is a strategic board game where the goal is to be the first player to form a "mill" or to block your opponent so that they cannot make a move. The game is played on a 3x3 board, similar to a Tic-Tac-Toe board but with additional dimensions.

Game Materials

• A 3x3 game board, often with three circles in Rubiks Mill games.
• Two players, each with differently colored pieces (for example, black and white).
• Each player typically has 9 pieces.

Setup

The game is prepared by leaving the board empty, and each player receives their 9 pieces.

Rules

Phase 1: Placement Phase

• Players take turns placing one of their pieces on an empty spot on the board. The goal is either to form a mill already in this phase or to position oneself strategically.

Phase 2: Movement Phase

• Once all pieces are placed, the movement phase begins. During this phase, players take turns sliding one of their pieces to an adjacent empty spot.
• The goal remains to form a mill by altering existing formations or blocking the opponent.

Forming a "Mill"

• When a player forms a row of three of their pieces in a straight line (horizontally or vertically), they form a mill.
• Upon forming a mill, the player may remove one opponent's piece that is not part of a mill. If all opponent's pieces are part of mills, any piece may be removed.

Winning the Game

• The game ends when a player is left with only two pieces, as they can no longer form a mill. The other player wins.
• A player also wins by blocking the opponent so they can no longer make a move.

Strategic Nuances

• Defense and Offense: While working to form your own mill, it's important to prevent the opponent from forming a mill or even preparing for two mills simultaneously.
• Double Mills: Try to create positions where you can switch between two mills with one move. This offers a great advantage as you can remove an opponent's piece in each turn.
• Flexibility: Keep multiple options in view to respond flexibly to the opponent's moves.

Rubiks Mill is easy to learn but offers strategic challenges that remain exciting every time.