Kubb

Objective of the Game

Kubb, also known as Viking Chess, is an outdoor lawn game where two teams throw wooden sticks at the opponent's blocks (Kubbs) and try to knock them over. The ultimate aim is to knock over the King, a larger block in the center of the field, after all opposing Kubbs have been toppled. The team that first knocks down the King wins the game.

Game Components

• 1 King: A larger wooden block set in the center of the playing field.
• 10 Kubbs: Smaller wooden blocks placed on each team's baseline.
• 6 Throwing Sticks: Round wooden batons used to knock over the Kubbs and the King.
• Boundary Markers: To demarcate the field (optional).

Playing Field

The playing field is typically a rectangle measuring 5 by 8 meters but can be adjusted as desired. Each team's five Kubbs are set up on their respective baseline.

Rules of Play

1. Teams and Setup: Kubb is generally played by two teams, each with 1 to 6 players.
2. Game Start: The King is placed in the center of the field. Each team sets up its 5 Kubbs on their baseline.
3. First Round: The starting team uses the throwing sticks to knock over the opponent’s baseline Kubbs.
4. Throwing Sticks: Each team has six throwing sticks per round. They must be thrown underhand, and they must not rotate end over end.
5. Toppled Kubbs: Knocked-over Kubbs are thrown into the opponent’s field and must be knocked over in the next round before any baseline Kubbs.
6. Field Throw: If a Kubb fails to land in the field from the baseline, the opposing team can place it anywhere on their side of the field.
7. Knocking Down Field Kubbs: Teams must topple all field Kubbs before attacking the baseline Kubbs again.
8. Topple the King: Only after all opposing Kubbs have fallen can the King be targeted.
9. Penalty: If the King is toppled before all Kubbs, the team that threw the stick loses.

Strategies

• Precision: Precise throws are essential. Practice to develop good balance and throwing technique.
• Strategic Tossing: Try to position field Kubbs in a way that is challenging for the opponent to reach.
• Defensive Setup: When throwing Kubbs into the opponent's field, line them up to make them difficult for the opponent to knock down.

Kubb combines strategy and skill in a fun outdoor setting, making it ideal for large events or simple backyard fun.