8 Family Games to Learn About Different Cultures

Introduction

Family game nights are a wonderful way to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Why not take game night a step further by exploring different cultures around the world? Not only will you have fun playing these games, but you’ll also expand your knowledge and understanding of diverse traditions, languages, and customs. In this article, we’ll introduce you to eight family games that will transport you to different parts of the globe.

1. Parcheesi (India)

Parcheesi is a classic Indian board game that dates back thousands of years. It’s similar to the game of Ludo and involves moving your pieces around the board based on the roll of dice. The game originated in ancient India and has since become a beloved pastime for families all over the world.

2. Mahjong (China)

Mahjong is a strategic tile-based game that originated in China. It’s played with a set of 144 tiles and involves skillfully matching the tiles to create winning sets. Mahjong is not only a fun game but also provides an insight into Chinese traditions and customs.

3. Mancala (Africa and Middle East)

Mancala is an ancient game that has been played in Africa and the Middle East for centuries. The game involves moving stones or seeds around a board with small pits, with the objective of capturing your opponent’s pieces. Playing Mancala is a great way to learn about the rich cultural heritage of African and Middle Eastern communities.

4. Bunco (United States)

Bunco is a dice game that gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century. It’s a social game that is often played in groups, making it perfect for family gatherings and parties. While Bunco may not have a direct cultural connection, it provides an opportunity for families to bond and have fun together.

5. Carrom (South Asia)

Carrom is a popular tabletop game in South Asia, particularly in countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It’s similar to billiards but played on a wooden board with pockets. Carrom requires skill and precision, making it an exciting game for the whole family.

6. Go (China, Japan, and Korea)

Go is a strategic board game that originated in China and later spread to Japan and Korea. It’s played on a grid with black and white stones, and the goal is to control more territory than your opponent. Go is considered one of the oldest board games in the world and provides a glimpse into the ancient traditions of East Asia.

7. Tōtō (Polynesia)

Tōtō is a traditional Polynesian strategy game that is played with seashells. The game involves moving shells around a board and capturing your opponent’s pieces. Playing Tōtō can help you explore the unique cultural heritage of the Polynesian islands.

8. Shisima (Kenya)

Shisima is a traditional Kenyan board game that is played with stones or pebbles. The game is played on a grid with nine holes, and the objective is to move your pieces strategically to block your opponent. Shisima is not only a fun game but also an opportunity to discover the traditions of Kenya and East Africa.

Conclusion

Introducing these eight family games into your game night routine will not only provide hours of entertainment but will also allow you and your family to learn about different cultures from around the world. Embrace the opportunity to discover new traditions, languages, and customs through the joy of playing together. Happy gaming!