Crokinole – How to Play Like a Pro

Crokinole is a popular tabletop game that originated in Canada in the late 19th century. It is a game that can be played by two or four players using a circular board with a hole in the center.

This game needs skill, strategy, and precision – and is a perfect game for players of all ages and skill levels. Crokinole is easy to learn but difficult to master. In this blog, we will go over the basic rules and some helpful tips to help you play like a pro.

The Objective of the Game

When you play Crokinole you score points by flicking small discs, called “crokinole discs” or “checkers,” into the center hole and into designated areas on the Crokinole wooden game board. The game is played over a series of rounds, and the player or team with the most points at the end of the game will be the winner.

Crokinole Wooden Game Board

The Crokinole board is a circular wooden board that measures approximately 26 inches in diameter. The board is divided into three concentric circles, with the outer circle being the largest and the inner circle being the smallest. The center of the wooden board also has a hole that measures 3.125 inches in diameter.

The board is surrounded by a raised edge that measures 1.25 inches in height. This edge is used to keep the crokinole discs on the board and to prevent them from falling off when they are flicked.

Understanding the Game Setup

This game can be played with two or four players. Playing with two players – each player takes turns flicking their own set (color) of Crokinole discs. Playing with four players – each player is on a team with a partner, and the partners alternate their turns.

To start the game, the players or teams must decide who will go first. The player or team that goes first gets to place their first disc anywhere on the board, as long as it is not in the center hole. The other player or team then takes their turn, and then alternate turns, and continue playing until all the crokinole discs have been flicked.

The Basic Rules of Crokinole

• Players take turns flicking their own set (color) of crokinole discs.
• The first player or team to score 100 points wins the game.
• The player or team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
• Points are scored by flicking crokinole discs into designated areas on the board.
• A player’s turn ends when they fail to score any points or when they commit a foul.

The Scoring System

The scoring system in Crokinole is based on the placement of the Crokinole discs on the board. The outer circle on the board is worth 5 points, the middle circle is worth 10 points, and the inner circle is worth 15 points. The best hole is the center hole which is worth 20 points.

When a player flicks a disc into the center hole, they will score 20 points, and the disc is then removed from the board. When a player flicks a disc into one of the designated areas on the board, they will score the corresponding number of points, and the disc remains on the board.

Fouls and Penalties

There are several fouls and penalties in the game. If a player commits a foul, their turn ends, and they do not score any points for that turn. The following are the most common fouls:

• If a player touches the board with any part of their body or clothing, their turn ends.
• If a player’s disc moves another disc, the player’s turn ends, and they do not score any points for that turn.
• If a player hits two discs with one shot, their turn ends, and they do not score any points for that turn.
• If a player flicks their disc out of turn, their turn ends, and they do not score any points for that turn.

Advanced Rules and Strategies

In Crokinole there are many advanced rules and strategies that can be used to improve your gameplay.

• Placing your discs in strategic positions on the board to prevent your opponent from scoring points.
• Flicking your disc off of another disc to score points.
• Taking your time to plan your shots and prevent your opponent from scoring points.
• Flicking your disc away from the center hole to prevent your opponent from scoring points.

Tips for Playing Like a Pro

To play like a pro in Crokinole, you need to practice and develop your skills. The following tips can help you improve your gameplay:

• Practice your aim and flicking technique.
• Learn to read the board and anticipate your opponent’s moves.
• Develop a consistent strategy and stick to it.
• Stay focused and avoid distractions.
• Play with experienced players and learn from them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you play with more than four players?
No, it is designed to be played with two or four players.

Do you have to flick your disc with your fingers?
No, you can use any part of your hand or a special flicking tool.

Can you flick your disc off of the board and onto the floor?
No, if your disc goes off of the board, it is considered a foul, and your turn ends.

Crokinole is a fun, entertaining and challenging game that can be played by players of all ages and skill levels. By following the basic rules and strategies outlined in this article, you can improve your gameplay and play like a pro. So, gather your friends and family, and get ready for a fun and exciting game of Crokinole!