| | | | | |

Skittle-Bowl (1783) Board Game

ByMichail

Skittle-Bowl is a classic board game that was first released in 1783 by L’Arbre a Jouer. It falls under the categories of Action/Dexterity, Children’s Game, and Sports, making it a versatile and entertaining choice for players of all ages. The game is designed to mimic the fun and excitement of bowling in a compact and portable format.

Game Components of Skittle-Bowl

  • Skittles:** Nine small skittles arranged in a 3 × 3 square.
  • Tray:** A shallow open-topped wooden tray, about 2 x 2½ feet in size, sitting on a table-top.
  • Cribbage Board:** Often forms part of the tray for keeping score.
  • Ball and Post:** A wooden ball, about the size of a golf ball, hangs from a string or chain attached to a vertical wooden post that swivels to allow the ball to swing freely.

    How To Setup Skittle-Bowl

    To set up the game, place the nine skittles in a 3 × 3 square within the wooden tray. Ensure the cribbage board is integrated into the tray for scoring. The vertical wooden post with the swiveling top should be securely positioned at one corner or one-third of the way along one side of the tray.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Mechanics:** Players swing the ball in an arc around the post to knock down the skittles.
  • Objective:** Knock down as many skittles as possible with each swing to earn points.
  • Attempts:** Each player has three attempts to knock down the skittles.
  • Scoring:** Points are tracked using the cribbage board.

    Player Experience

    Playing “Devil among the tailors” is a delightful and challenging experience, particularly in a pub setting where it is commonly found. The game requires a mix of skill and luck as players aim to swing the ball in just the right arc to hit the skittles. The social aspect of the game is significant, as it often involves friendly competition and banter among players.

    Pros

  • Social Interaction:** Encourages socializing and competition.
  • Skill and Luck:** Combines both skill and luck, making it engaging for players of different abilities.
  • Historical Value:** A game with a rich historical background, adding to its charm.
  • Simple Setup:** Easy to set up and understand the rules.

    Cons

  • Space Requirements:** Requires a decent amount of space for the tray and post.
  • Physical Skill:** Can be challenging for those with less physical coordination.
  • Availability:** Less common in modern times, making it harder to find.

    Personal Thoughts on Skittle-Bowl

    “Devil among the tailors” is a game that is perfect for those who enjoy traditional pub games and are looking for a fun, interactive experience. It’s ideal for groups of friends or families who want to engage in some light-hearted competition. The game’s unique mechanics and historical significance make it a standout in any game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking highly complex or strategic games, as its charm lies in its simplicity and social interaction.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

    • 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

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *