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About game
Tavlei (Hnefatafl) — Viking Chess
Immerse yourself in the legendary strategy of the north, where the King's small retinue confronts the overwhelming forces of the invaders.
Modes:
Duel: Play with a friend on the same device.
Against AI: Challenge yourself in defense or attack against the computer.
Gameplay
The similarity to Chess.
A strategic calculation for several moves ahead is important. The pieces move in straight lines, and losing a key position can lead to defeat.
Similarity to Go.
The mechanics of capture and encirclement are reminiscent of Go. Often, victory is achieved not by destroying the pieces, but by competent positioning and cutting off the territory.
Differences.
Unlike classic games, the forces are not equal here.
At the beginning of the game, Black has 24 warriors, while white has 12 warriors and a King.
Different victory conditions.
White needs to escape, Black needs to catch. This creates a unique game pattern in each game.
How to play
🛡️ Tavlei (Hnefatafl)
The ancient "chess" of the Vikings! The forces are unequal: The King and his retinue against the overwhelming forces of the invaders.
The objectives of the parties.
Defenders (White): Your task is to save the King! Swipe the golden piece from the center to any of the four corner cells (Shelters).
Attackers (Black): Your task is to prevent the King from escaping! Capture him by surrounding him from 4 sides, or create an impenetrable blockade ring.
⚔ Basic rules:
Move: All pieces move like a rook in chess — vertically and horizontally for any distance.
You can't jump over the pieces.
The corner fields and the central one (the Throne) are for the king only.
Battle: To remove an opponent's piece from the board, pinch it from both sides with your warriors.
Special fields: The Throne (center) and Corners are holy ground, and only the King can stand on them.
Play with a friend on the same device or challenge the Artificial Intelligence!