Kubb Yard Game – The Complete Guide to Viking Chess for Your Backyard!
Kubb, often referred to as “Viking Chess,” is more than just a lawn game—it’s a strategic outdoor experience that blends ancient traditions, tactical gameplay, and family fun. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, spending time at the beach, or looking for a new hobby to share with friends, Kubb is the perfect outdoor game that anyone can enjoy.
Let’s dive into what makes this Swedish yard game a rising favorite around the world.
⭐ What Is Kubb?
Kubb is a team-based lawn game played with wooden blocks and batons, where the objective is to knock over your opponent’s wooden “kubbs” (small blocks) and eventually take down the “King” block at the center. Played on grass, sand, or even snow, the game is loved for its versatility, simplicity, and competitive strategy.
🛡️ Myth or History?
While many call it the “Game of the Vikings,” there’s no direct historical evidence tying it to Viking times. However, its design and gameplay certainly feel like something out of Norse culture—tactical, rugged, and communal.
🎯 Kubb Yard Game Setup: Step-by-Step
Setting up your Kubb field is easy and flexible. A standard court is 5 meters wide and 8 meters long, but you can adjust this for younger players or smaller yards.
🧱 You’ll Need:
- 10 baseline kubbs
- 1 King (the central target)
- 6 batons for throwing
- 4 stakes or markers to outline the field
🪵 DIY Tip:
Want to build your own Kubb set? Use untreated hardwood like beech or birch. Ensure each piece is uniform for balanced gameplay.
🕹️ How to Play Kubb (Official Rules & Flow)
🔁 Game Flow:
- Toss the batons to knock down opponent’s kubbs.
- Toss knocked kubbs into your opponent’s half—they become field kubbs.
- Knock down field kubbs before baseline kubbs.
- Once all kubbs are down, aim for the King.
- First team to knock the King legally wins. Knock it down early? You lose!
⚖️ Rule of Equal Turns:
If Team A knocks over the King first but has had one more turn than Team B, Team B gets an equal chance to win. This ensures fairness in competitive play.
💡 Strategy Guide: Win Like a Viking
Winning Kubb is about more than strength—it’s about angle, aim, planning, and control.
🧠 Best Kubb Tactics:
- Precision over power: A gentle, controlled throw is more effective than a wild swing.
- Group the kubbs: Aim to cluster field kubbs for easier takedowns.
- Use the “inkast” wisely: When tossing field kubbs, try to land them close together near the center line.
- Plan your baton order: Send your best throwers against the hardest targets.
🌿 Why Kubb is the Best Outdoor Game in 2025
Kubb is having a major moment—and for good reason.
🌎 Eco-Friendly Fun
Most sets are made of natural wood, making Kubb one of the most sustainable yard games around.
🧑🤝🧑 Social & Inclusive
Whether you’re 6 or 60, Kubb accommodates all ages and skill levels. It’s just as fun for kids as it is for competitive adults.
⚕️ Health Benefits
- Encourages low-impact physical activity
- Enhances coordination and motor skills
- Stimulates strategic thinking and teamwork
🏖️ Where to Play Kubb: Ideas Beyond the Backyard
Kubb isn’t just a backyard game. It’s a portable activity that can be played almost anywhere:
- 🌳 Local parks
- 🏖️ Beaches and lakesides
- ❄️ Snowy yards (Snow Kubb is a real thing!)
- 🎉 Camping trips
- 🏟️ School playgrounds or PE classes
Bring it to tailgates, birthday parties, or family reunions—it’s always a hit.
🏆 Competitive Kubb: Leagues, Clubs, and Tournaments
Yes, Kubb has an international scene! From local meetups to national championships, enthusiasts all over the world have formed Kubb clubs and leagues.
🌍 Major Tournaments:
- U.S. National Kubb Championship – Eau Claire, Wisconsin
- World Championship – Gotland, Sweden
- UK Kubb Championship
- Canadian Open Kubb Tournament
Want to compete? Start by finding a local club or creating your own with friends.
🛍️ Choosing the Best Kubb Set in 2025
With growing popularity, there are now dozens of brands offering high-quality Kubb sets. Here’s how to choose the best one:
| Feature | What to Look For |
| Material | FSC-certified hardwood, preferably beech or birch |
| Finish | Natural oil finish to resist weather |
| Storage | Carrying case or bag included |
| Weight | Heavier blocks resist wind and bounce better |
| Design | Rounded vs. flat tops (flat is official tournament style) |
Top brands to consider include: Bex Sport, Planet Finska, GoSports, and YardGames.
🧽 Kubb Maintenance & Care
Protect your investment with these simple steps:
- Clean regularly with a dry cloth.
- Avoid long exposure to rain or moisture.
- Re-seal wooden pieces yearly with linseed or mineral oil.
- Store indoors during winter months or rainy seasons.
🔄 Unique Kubb Variations for More Fun
Keep your games fresh with these creative rule variations:
| Game Mode | Description |
| Blitz Kubb | Only 4 batons, faster gameplay |
| Night Kubb | Use glow-in-the-dark paint or LED pieces |
| Team Switch | After each round, switch one player per team |
| Royal Rescue | King can be revived once per game with a clean full-turn clear |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Kubb safe for children?
Yes! With adult supervision, kids 5+ can enjoy simplified rules and lighter wooden or plastic sets.
2. Can I make my own Kubb set at home?
Absolutely. Many DIY Kubb sets are made from dowels and lumber—just keep the sizes consistent.
3. How many people can play Kubb?
Kubb can be played 1 vs. 1 up to 6 vs. 6. The game scales well and stays fun with more players.
4. What’s the most common beginner mistake?
Throwing the baton like a spear. The correct throw is underhand with end-over-end rotation only.
5. Do weather conditions affect the game?
Yes. Wet or uneven ground may cause blocks to slide or tip more easily. Try to play on level ground when possible.
6. How do tournaments score games?
Most use best of three formats, with point-based scoring systems and time limits in elimination rounds.
7. What’s a “perfect game” in Kubb?
When a team wins by knocking down all kubbs and the King in a single turn—a rare but amazing feat!
8. Where can I find Kubb communities online?
Check out:
- Reddit (/r/Kubb)
- Facebook Groups (e.g., Kubb United)
- Official tournament websites
📌 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Start Playing Kubb Today
If you’re looking for a smart, fun, eco-friendly yard game that everyone can play, Kubb is a standout choice. It’s easy to learn, rewarding to master, and endlessly customizable to your space, crowd, or event. With minimal equipment and maximum replay value, Kubb turns any outdoor gathering into a game worth remembering.
