Just picked up a copy of Abalone. Interesting game. For those who are luke warm, I'd suggest looking at http://uk.abalonegames.com/rules/variations/index.html

which has a bunch of variations on the game. Some require additional marbles of different colors. Also, thought I'd mention that the marbles are interchangeable with the ones in Kuba. I'd also suggest reading the rules on http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abalone_game which explains some moves not really obvious from the rules in the box. Nice to see this one back in print.

The lines are rigid, but soon you will start seeing fluid pressures and motions on an Abalone board.

VERY natural feeling rules. The universe on the board of Abalone is very complete and simple in concept. (unlike chess, which overflows with rules of different and arbitrary piece move types and starting positions.)

The shorter game (less balls off the board to win) is great for learning or just a faster game.

The wonderful clack of balls sliding into place with each move is just another pleasing thing about this wonderfully pure strategy game.

If you like abstract strategy - this is the game.

Before you go any further, take a look at the Bollox game, otherwise what I'm going to be describing will make very little sense.

Now... Abalone is a two person abstract stategy game based on Sumo wrestling. It is one of the rare games that you will ever find that is 'easy to learn and difficult to master' (think Pente). The components consist of an octogonal plastic board (shaped like a stopsign), and thirteen black and thirteen white marbles (see Bollox).

The rules of the game are simple. Rules of movement; move one, two or three marbles in one direction and in a straight line. Rules of combat; more marbles push less marbles. Example; three black marbles can push either one or two white marbles. The first player to push five of their opponent's marbles outside of the ring, in any direction, wins the game!

Play consists of each player taking turns postioning their marbles strategicly. Deciding whether to push your opponent's marbles or consolidate your position in the center of the board is a fine line which determines astounding victories or staggering defeats!

This is an amazingly elegant, handsome game which I have played dozens of times. Its great for kids and adults. No wating around to learn the rules! So... does anyone want to Sumo?