Kubb is a Swedish throwing game played with wooden blocks and batons. It is often marketed as “Viking chess”, although the romantic claim that Vikings played the modern game is not supported by firm historical evidence. What is certain is that Kubb has a strong modern association with Sweden, particularly the island of Gotland, and is now enjoyed around the world.
The good news for first-time players is that the basic aim is much easier to understand than the nickname suggests. Knock down the other team’s wooden blocks, then topple the king to win.
What is in a Kubb set?
A standard set contains one larger king, ten smaller rectangular blocks called kubbs, six throwing batons and boundary stakes. Five kubbs stand on each team’s baseline and the king is placed in the centre.
Formal competitions normally use a rectangular pitch, but a friendly session can be adapted to the available space. At The Manor & Ashbury’s Kubb session, the instructor will explain the layout and the version being played.
How a turn works
The first team throws its batons from behind the baseline, aiming for the opposing baseline kubbs. Batons are thrown underarm and end-over-end, rather than sideways like a helicopter blade.
Any baseline kubbs that are knocked over are then thrown into the other half of the pitch. They are stood upright where they finish and become field kubbs. On the next turn, the opposing team must knock down its field kubbs before aiming for the baseline kubbs.
If a team leaves an opponent’s field kubb standing, the opponents may gain a shorter throwing line for their next turn. Exact tournament rules cover unusual situations in more detail, but beginners only need to remember the order: field kubbs first, baseline kubbs second, king last.
How do you win?
Once a team has cleared all the field and baseline kubbs it is entitled to aim at the king. The king must be attacked from the baseline. Knock it over at the correct time and the game is won.
Knock the king over early, however, and your team loses. This single rule creates much of Kubb’s tension: a stray baton can turn a strong position into instant defeat.
Does Kubb use points?
A standard game is normally decided by winning the sequence rather than building a running points score. Tournament matches may be played as one game or the best of several games. For a short recreational session, the instructor may adjust pitch size or format to keep everybody involved.
Common beginner mistakes
- Throwing sideways: a controlled end-over-end throw is safer and more accurate.
- Forgetting the field kubbs: these must be cleared before baseline kubbs count.
- Aiming at the king too soon: doing so can lose the game immediately.
- Using too much force: accuracy and a repeatable action usually matter more than power.
- Standing over the line: keep behind the appropriate throwing line.
Why Kubb is so approachable
Kubb combines simple throwing with just enough strategy to make every turn interesting. Players can discuss which block to target, try to place field kubbs close together and celebrate a well-judged baton without needing advanced sporting ability.
The resort lists Kubb as a bookable session at the Manor. Availability can vary, so check the current activity programme for your break. Arrive ready to listen to the short explanation, take a practice throw and remember: leave the king until last.
