Ouk-Khmer (Cambodian chess)

ByMichail

Ouk-Khmer (Cambodian chess)

Ouk-Khmer, also known as Ouk Chaktrung, is a popular board game played in Cambodia that dates back to the early Angkorian era in 800 AD. It is believed to have originated in India or Persia, and it closely resembles the ancient form of chess known as Chaturanga. The game is depicted in several reliefs in the Angkor temples, and there is evidence of its presence in Cambodia since the twelfth century. The first nationwide Ouk tournament was held in 2008, following the completion of a standardized rule set by the Olympic Committee of Cambodia and the Cambodian Chess Association.

Why is Ouk-Khmer (Cambodian chess) Popular?

Ouk-Khmer is significant because it is a traditional game that has been played in Cambodia for centuries. It is deeply rooted in the country’s culture and history, and it is even depicted in the Angkor temples. The game is popular among older men in Cambodia, and it is often played in barbershops and during Angkor Songkran, the celebration of the first three days of Khmer New Year at Angkor Wat.

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Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl