Play the ancient game of "Hnefatafl" in style on your PC, in Singleplayer mode against the AI or Multiplayer over the internet. "Hnefatafl" is a strategic, chess-like boardgame with assumed origins all the way back to the Viking era.
In this two-player, turn-based strategy game, players take on asymmetrical roles. One player controls the Attacker faction with 24 pieces, while the other player commands the Defender faction with 13 pieces, including the King. The Attackers must surround the King on four adjacent sides or enclose all of his escape routes to capture him and win. Conversely, the Defenders must move the King to one of the four corner tiles to allow him to escape and secure victory, or protect the King in an "Edge Fort".
All pieces move vertically or horizontally, like Rooks in Chess. This creates a unique set of strategic considerations, as players must carefully plan their piece placements and capture maneuvers. The game features several exciting capture mechanics, including flanking moves, "Shieldwall" moves to trap opponent pieces, and "Multi-capture" moves to send opponents back to their "viking boats" in defeat.
With six possible win conditions and a variety of capture mechanics, players can explore different approaches and discover new strategies as they play. The game's asymmetrical design ensures that each match presents unique challenges, encouraging players to adapt their tactics and develop new ways to outsmart their opponents.
The game's multiplayer functionality allows players to engage in online matches, fostering a sense of community and competition. While the online player base may be small at times, the game's asynchronous nature and ranking system provide a satisfying multiplayer experience for those who seek it. The dedicated community of players appreciates the game's historical roots and chess-like depth.