Irish

“Irish” or “Irish Gamyne” is an Anglo-Scottish board game for two players that was popular from the 16th to the mid-18th centuries before being superseded by other games like backgammon. The game has its roots in the early second millennium and was played with equal sides. It has been equated to the Spanish game of Todas Tablas, which appeared in El Libro de los Juegos published in 1283 by King Alfonso X of Castile. The game uses a standard tables board and involves movement and chance.

Why is Irish Popular?

Irish is significant because it provides a glimpse into the pastime activities of the Irish people during the 16th and 17th centuries. The game was played in Ireland, as well as in England, and was considered a more serious and solid game compared to backgammon. The game’s popularity can also be attributed to its simple rules and the use of dice, which added an element of chance to the game.

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