Abalone Rules

Game Overview

Abalone is an abstract strategy board game designed for two players. The game is played on a hexagonal board with 61 circular spaces arranged in a hexagon of 5 spaces per side. Each player has 14 marbles that are initially arranged in a specific pattern.

The objective is simple: push your opponent's marbles off the board. The first player to push six of the opponent's marbles off the board wins the game.

Game Setup

The standard starting position is with the black and white marbles arranged in opposing positions on the board. Each player's 14 marbles are arranged in two rows at opposite edges of the board.

Alternative starting positions include:

  • Belgian Daisy: Marbles are arranged in flower-like formations on opposite sides of the board
  • German Daisy: A variation of the Belgian Daisy with a different arrangement
  • Snake: Marbles are arranged in snake-like patterns

How to Move

Players take turns moving their marbles. On your turn, you can move:

  1. In-line move: Move 1, 2, or 3 of your marbles in a straight line to an adjacent empty space.
  2. Broadside move: Move 2 or 3 of your marbles sideways in unison to adjacent empty spaces.
  3. Sumito: Push your opponent's marbles if you have more marbles in line than your opponent (e.g., 3 vs 2, 3 vs 1, or 2 vs 1).

Example: Sumito (3 vs 2)

If you have 3 marbles in a row and your opponent has 2 marbles in the same line, you can push your opponent's marbles one space (if there's an empty space behind them) or off the board (if they're at the edge).

Important Rules

  • You can only push if you have numerical superiority (more marbles in line than your opponent).
  • You cannot push your own marbles.
  • You cannot push more than 3 opponent marbles at once.
  • If there is no empty space behind the marbles being pushed, the move is not allowed (unless it would push a marble off the board).
  • Marbles pushed off the board are removed from play.

Winning the Game

The first player to push six of the opponent's marbles off the board wins the game.

Some variations play to a different number of marbles (e.g., first to push 3 marbles wins).

Strategy Tips

  • Keep your marbles connected: Isolated marbles are vulnerable to being pushed off.
  • Control the center: The center of the board provides more mobility and options.
  • Create formations: Groups of 3 marbles are powerful as they can push opponent's pairs or single marbles.
  • Watch the edges: Be careful when your marbles are near the edge of the board.
  • Plan ahead: Think about both your offensive moves and defensive positioning.