Classic 25-piece Hnefatafl Game
This hnefatafl game is the standard by which others should be measured. Priced lower than the Deluxe game, the standard game still offers simple elegance that makes it an attractive ornament for the coffee table while not in use.
The board is made from beech plywood, and measures 10 inches (250mm) square. It is coated with a cellulose lacquer to give it a smooth, glassy feel, and is then polished with beeswax. The playing area consists of nine rows of nine 1-inch (25mm) squares.
The pattern is burned into the board using the pokerwork technique, and is kept minimal so that different rules and starting layouts may be played with this set. Only the centre square and the four corners are marked.
The pieces are 25 wooden pawns: a dark brown king, his eight brown defenders, and sixteen white attackers. A black drawstring pouch is supplied to carry the pieces when travelling or when the game is put away.
The booklet included with the game gives the history of hnefatafl in brief. It contains the rules for three different versions of hnefatafl: tablut, the best documented version of hnefatafl from 18th century Lapland; tawlbwrdd, a simple version from mediaeval Wales; and sea battle tafl, a modern variant which is simple, elegant and balanced, making it especially suited to tournament play.
The game comes with the same after-sales service you expect from The Hnefatafl Shop. Before and after the sale, you'll find here a passion for the game: strategic tips and alternative rules for the board on the web site, and a readiness to answer any questions about history, rules and strategy that you may have.
This game is hand-made in a rustic style. Please do not expect machine-made precision; there may therefore be minor blemishes in the work. Not suitable for young children due to small pieces.
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