Objective of the Game

Moruba is a traditional South African game often played outdoors on a board made by digging holes in the ground. The aim is to collect the most seeds (or stones) into your possession by moving them strategically across the game board.

Game Materials

• A game board with two rows of holes, typically six holes per row.
• A collection of seeds or small stones, totaling 48 pieces.

Setup

• Place four seeds in each of the 12 holes.
• Each player sits on one side of the board. The row of holes directly in front of a player belongs to them; the opposite row belongs to the opponent.

Gameplay

1. Player Selection: Decide which player will start.
2. Turns: On their turn, a player selects one of the holes in their row, picks up all the seeds from it, and distributes them counterclockwise into subsequent holes.
3. If the seeds reach the end of one row, continue, if possible, on the opposite row.
4. Last Seed: If the last seed distributed lands in a hole with seeds, the player takes all seeds from this hole and continues distributing.
5. Capturing Seeds: If the last seed lands in an empty hole in the player's own row, and the opposite hole contains seeds, the player captures all the seeds from the opposite hole and puts them in their store.

End of the Game

The game ends when none of the players can make a move, meaning all seeds are in holes from which no further moves are possible. The player with the most captured seeds wins.

Strategy and Tips

• Distribute Thoughtfully: Plan your moves ahead to avoid giving your opponent opportunities.
• Avoid Empty Holes: Empty holes in your own row can be dangerous as they allow the opponent to easily capture seeds.
• Capture Strategically: Use the capturing rule to your advantage strategically.