Mancala.app

An ancient game of strategy and skill

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Player vs Player

Challenge a friend and play together on the same device

Player vs AI

Test your skills against our strategic AI opponent

How to Win

The objective of Mancala is to collect more stones in your store (the large pit on your right) than your opponent by the end of the game.

Strategic moves, careful planning, and anticipating your opponent's moves are key to mastering this ancient game of skill.

Quick Rules

  1. On your turn, select one of your pits to pick up all stones
  2. Distribute stones one by one counterclockwise, including your store but skipping your opponent's store
  3. If the last stone lands in your store, you get another turn
  4. If the last stone lands in an empty pit on your side, you capture that stone and all stones in the opposite pit
  5. Game ends when all pits on one side are empty
  6. When the game ends, all remaining stones in a player's pits are moved to their store

About Mancala

Mancala is one of the oldest known games in the world, with evidence of play dating back to ancient Egypt and across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East over 3,000 years ago.

The name “Mancala” comes from the Arabic word “naqala” meaning “to move.” It represents not just a single game but a family of counting and strategy games played around the world with various local names and rule variations.

Benefits of Playing

  • Develops strategic thinking and planning skills
  • Improves mathematical abilities and counting skills
  • Enhances concentration and patience
  • Teaches turn-taking and good sportsmanship