How to Play Kubb: A Comprehensive Guide

Kubb, often referred to as "Viking Chess," is a classic Scandinavian lawn game that combines strategy, skill, and fun. Played outdoors on grass, sand, or even snow, this game is perfect for gatherings with friends and family.

What You Need to Play

• 10 Kubbs: Wooden blocks that serve as the main targets.
• 1 King: A larger wooden block placed in the center of the field.
• 6 Batons: Wooden dowels used for knocking over the Kubbs.
• Boundary Markers: Stakes or markers to define the playing field.

Setting Up the Game

Playing Field Dimensions

The field is rectangular, measuring approximately 8 meters (26 feet) long and 5 meters (16 feet) wide. Divide it into two equal halves.

Positioning the Pieces

• Place five Kubbs evenly along each team's baseline (the shorter sides of the rectangle).
• Position the King in the exact center of the field.

Teams

Kubb can be played with 2 to 12 players, divided into two teams. Each team takes one side of the field.

Objective of the Game

The goal is to knock down all of your opponent's Kubbs and then topple the King to win. However, if you knock over the King before clearing all other Kubbs, your team loses immediately.

How to Play

Determining First Turn

Each team throws one baton underhand toward the King. The team whose baton lands closest without hitting the King goes first.

Throwing Batons

• Teams take turns throwing all six batons underhand and end-over-end (no spinning throws allowed).
• The goal is to knock down as many of the opponent's baseline Kubbs as possible.

Field Kubbs

• Any knocked-over Kubbs are thrown by the opposing team into your half of the field and set upright where they land. These are called "field Kubbs."
• Before targeting baseline Kubbs again, a team must knock over all field Kubbs on their opponent's side.

Throwing Line

Players must throw from behind their nearest field Kubb (or their baseline if no field Kubbs remain).

Winning the Game

Once all baseline and field Kubbs on one side are knocked over, that team can aim for the King. The first team to topple the King after clearing all other Kubbs wins.

Key Rules

• If a Kubb lands outside the opponent's half during a throw, it must be re-thrown once. If it fails again, the opposing team can place it anywhere on their side (at least one baton-length away from the King).
• Knocking over the King prematurely results in an automatic loss.
• All throws must be underhand and rotate end-over-end.

Strategies for Success

Master Your Throwing Technique

Lock your elbow for better accuracy and aim for a consistent 180-degree rotation of the baton.

Strategic Placement of Field Kubbs

• When throwing knocked-over Kubbs into your opponent's field, aim to cluster them together for easier targeting.
• Conversely, when setting up your opponent's thrown Kubbs, spread them out to make them harder to hit.

Prioritize Targets

Always aim for closer field Kubbs first before moving on to baseline Kubbs. This minimizes your opponent's advantage in their next turn.

Control Your Throws

Avoid reckless throws that could accidentally hit your own pieces or miss entirely.

Why Play Kubb?

Kubb is more than just a game; it’s a combination of skillful precision and tactical planning that anyone can enjoy. Its roots in Viking culture add a historical charm, while its simple rules make it accessible for players of all ages and skill levels.

Whether you're playing casually in your backyard or competing in tournaments, Kubb offers endless hours of fun and friendly competition!