The game board consisted of a long track, typically divided into thirty squares. The players used cylindrical pieces, resembling pawns, to move around the squares. To determine the number of squares a piece could move, players tossed four sticks on the ground, similar to rolling dice. The outcome of the toss determined how far the piece could advance. Additionally, certain squares on the board had special properties. For example, landing on a specific square might allow the player to move their piece further, capture an opponent's piece, or even reverse their opponent's progress.
The Game of Mehen
The game of Mehen involved a circular board or path with thirty squares, often resembling the shape of a coiled serpent. Players used cone-shaped pieces to navigate around the board, again moving the pieces based on the outcome of throwing sticks or tossing a ball. The objective was to move their pieces completely around the serpent's body and reach the end of the path. Along the way, they had to avoid spaces occupied by opponent's pieces or face setbacks.
The Game of Twenty Squares
The game of Twenty Squares featured a board divided into twenty numbered squares. Players used seven sticks, each with different markings, as both game pieces and throwing sticks to determine the number of squares they could move. The goal of the game was to reach the twentieth square before one's opponent. Capturing opposing pieces was another important aspect, and specific squares could confer additional benefits or challenges to the players.
These games were a significant part of ancient Egyptian culture, enjoyed by people from all social classes. Beyond entertainment, the games also served educational purposes, such as developing counting and strategy skills. They remain notable examples of early board game innovation and demonstrate the creativity of ancient Egyptian culture.