Khorol (Zendmene)
An ancient game played that's been popular among our people for countless generations. It's similar to dominos as it also has domino-shaped figures. There are always 60 of these – four times 15 figures. The 15 figures are animals, and each has a unique ability that depends on the four versions in which the animal comes.
The game is very strategic, and the object is to build as many homes with the figures as you can using different strategies. Your opponents do the same, and you have to slow them down while trying to win. The way the game is played is too complicated to be explained effectively in writing, so make sure to ask us when you come to Mongolia!
Ail Ger (Home Building)
A traditional Mongolian game that's played with stones, the name of which translates to 'family home.' You start the game by drawing a small circle of stones that represents a ger. Within the circle, you put several rocks that represent the furniture and other objects found in a typical Mongolian ger. Then you put a couple of stones outside in different shapes and colors to represent specific animals.
The game is very symbolic, and the point of it is for other people to come and place a stone that also symbolizes an animal. The belief is that this will increase the size of the cattle of the family that started the game. So, if you come across an ali ger during your stay in Mongolia, make sure you place a nice stone to bring the family good luck!
Shagai
Shagai is another ubiquitous Mongolian game that has existed since ancient times. It's profoundly symbolic and is played with sheep's knucklebones that were previously thoroughly cleaned. There are several versions of the game, but the object is usually to throw and pick them. You have to be careful about which side they fall as there are consequences for the game.
The symbolic nature of the game stems from the fact that the families that used to have many knucklebones for the game also had many sheep, which meant they were prosperous.
Shatar – Mongolian Chess
The most popular game in Mongolia today is certainly our version of chess. It also has historical significance as it's believed that chess originated in Mongolia during the period of the Huns.
The main difference between the western chess you are familiar with and the traditional Mongolian one lies in the overall theme. Instead of having an underlying warfare theme, Shatar is more peaceful as it's deeply connected to animals and herding. Additionally, there are also several different rules in the way the figures are moved and what they can and need to do.
As you can see, Mongolia has some very interesting games that are entirely rooted in our unique culture and traditions we continue to respect and cherish. If you want to learn more about these and many other Mongolian games, feel free to ask us!
