Hounds and Jackals: Game of the Pharaohs (-2000)

Hounds and Jackals

Hounds and Jackals, also known as 58 holes, is an ancient Egyptian board game that was invented around 2000 BC. It is known from several examples of gaming boards and gaming pieces found in excavations. The game was named “Hounds and Jackals” by Howard Carter because of the decorative shapes of the pegs – one player’s pins were carved in the form of hounds, while the opposite player’s pins were carved as jackals. The game was called 58 Holes by William Mathew Flinders Petrie because the game board features 58 holes (29 for each side). More than 68 gameboards of hounds and jackals have been discovered in the archaeological excavations in various territories, including Syria, Israel, Iraq, Iran, Turkey, and Azerbaijan.

Why is Hounds and Jackals Popular?

The game of Hounds and Jackals was important to Egyptians who lived during the Middle Kingdom (approximately 4,000 years ago). Egyptologists know this because they have found many examples of these game boards at Middle Kingdom archaeological sites. This game is usually found in tombs, which might tell us that the game was not only played because it was fun, but also because it had a symbolic meaning. The game is significant because it provides insight into the leisure activities of ancient Egyptians and their culture.

Game Components of Hounds and Jackals: Game of the Pharaohs

Game Board: Shaped like an axe-head or shield, with 58 holes, often featuring a palm tree design in the center.

Gaming Pieces: Ten small sticks, five with dog (hound) heads and five with jackal heads, made from materials like wood, ivory, silver, and gold.

Randomizing Device: Stick dice or other randomizing devices were used to determine moves.

How To Setup Hounds and Jackals: Game of the Pharaohs

To set up the game, each player selects their set of gaming pieces, either the hound or jackal heads. The board is placed in the middle, and players position their pieces at the starting holes. The game board features various markings, including hieroglyphs and links between holes that denote shortcuts and penalties.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay: Players take turns rolling the dice to move their pieces around the board. The links between holes can either advance or set back the player’s progress.

Shortcuts and Penalties: Landing in certain holes can trigger immediate moves to other holes or grant extra turns.

Objective: The goal is to move all five of your pieces from the starting point to the final hole, marked with the *shen* hieroglyph, which symbolizes eternity and protection.

Player Experience

Hounds and Jackals offers a unique and engaging player experience, combining elements of luck and strategy. The game’s intricate board design and the physical act of inserting pieces into holes add a tactile and immersive layer to gameplay. The game was not only a form of entertainment but also held spiritual significance, potentially representing the journey to the afterlife in ancient Egyptian culture.

Pros

Historical Significance: A glimpse into ancient Egyptian leisure and spiritual practices.

Interactive Mechanics: Combines rolling dice with strategic movement.

Tactile Experience: Players insert pieces into holes, adding a physical element to the game.

Cultural Insights: Provides a window into ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife.

Cons

Unknown Original Rules: Modern rules are interpretations based on archaeological findings.

Complex Setup: The game requires understanding the hieroglyphs and links on the board.

Limited Availability: Original sets are rare and mostly found in museums.

Personal Thoughts on Hounds and Jackals: Game of the Pharaohs

Hounds and Jackals is an intriguing game that appeals to both history enthusiasts and board game aficionados. It’s ideal for those interested in ancient cultures and willing to learn the interpreted rules. The game’s blend of luck, strategy, and historical context makes it a unique addition to any game collection. However, due to the complexity and the need to understand the archaeological context, it may not be suitable for casual gamers seeking straightforward rules.

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