Mongolian Traditional games

Mongolian traditional games are very popular in my country because it is a fun and easy way to socialize with friends and family. It is also a great way to stay active since the game requires players to run around and use their bodies in creative ways.

The games can be played by people of all ages, so it is perfect for family gatherings or parties with friends. There are many variations of the game including:

1. Ankle Bone game ”Shagai”

Knuckle Bones game that we call ”Shagai”. Ankle bone game is the most popular variation of Mongolian traditional game. It is played with four or more players and requires a small amount of equipment. The game is played on a flat surface, such as a table or the ground.

melhii uruh game

The anklebone game is usually played by sheep ankle bone in Mongolia. The Ankle Bone has four sides but an extra side too. The four sides are called:

  • Horse
  • Sheep
  • Goat
  • Camel
  • and the fifth side is called Cow
four difficult, 4 berkh

But for some reason, The cow is called another version too. There are so many tribes in Mongolia. So they called it differently.

Truly there are so many kinds of versions that can be played with ‘Shagai” But here I attach the most popular game of Shagai ‘How to Play Ankle bone game‘

Where can I buy this product?

You can buy Shagai products from Amazon. This Shagai has 5 kinds of colors.

Buy Ankle bone Game

Mongolian traditional game ‘Shagai’

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800x800 box picture

2. Khorol game

Khorol game was a very popular game before 1921 in Mongolia. This game is kind of represented 12 years. But since 1921, the Game has changed to Daaluu. Nowadays, people also know to call it Daaluu. A full explaining is found on this link Khorol game.

Ordos Museum Mongolian chess and cards

3. Dembee

The Mongolians’ favorite game, Dembee, is a melody-based, entertaining finger game that is popular among them.

Dembee is a debate about cantillating between two counterparts based on the melody. The objective of the game is to guess the finger the total amount.

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Each player has to play 5 fingers. And guess their total numbers. the player who can win the game if the guess is right.

The game of Dembee, which is an Mongolian ancient tradition, was passed down from the past. At the start of summer, herder families begin to milk mares and produce Airag /fermented milk/. The rule is simple, the loser of the Dembee game must drink a cup of Airag.

4. Onison game (Burr puzzle )

This game is called “Burr Puzzle“. It’s one of the oldest and most popular games in Mongolia. This game is made of wood and there are so many different types of Burr Puzzle.

But the goal is always the same. You need to put all the blocks into the holes without taking out any other blocks.

If you want to buy this game online check this link.

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5. Ice knucklebone game

This game is called “Ice Game” in Mongolian. It’s one of the most popular winter games. The game is played with a small ball made of ice.

The object of the game is to hit the ball with your knuckles and make it go through a small hole in the ice. The game is usually played by two people, but can also be played by more.

6. Chess

Chess is a popular game in Mongolia. Chess thrived in Mongolia in lately 20th century. It is usually played by two people, but can also be played by more. The game is played on a board with 64 squares. There are 16 pieces for each player, including:

chess
  • King
  • Queen
  • Bishop
  • Knight
  • Rook
  • Pawn

The objective of the game is to checkmate the opponent’s king. This means that the king is in danger of being captured and cannot be moved without being captured.

Bonus: Alungoo Queen Puzzle Game

Here I found a really interesting product Alungoo Queen Jigsaw Puzzle game. Alungoo Queen is the most famous legend in our history. Alungoo Queen’s life has been talked about as a legend for centuries.

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Traveler / Writer / Founder

Bayanbat.A

A.Bayanbat is the founder and CEO of Webhiine.com, top digital marketing agency in Mongolia. He has rich experience in marketing management, especially at Nomin Holding, he has expertise in online presence, digital strategy and social media marketing. He studied at Hallym University and Inha University, got international experience and holds a degree in Trade Management from National University of Mongolia. Through Correctmongolia, Bayanbat shares his deep knowledge of Mongolian culture, traditions and modern developments to help people around the world connect and appreciate Mongolia’s unique heritage. Bayanbat’s professional experience and passion for promoting Mongolia makes him a trusted authority in digital marketing and cultural exploration.

What traditional games do Mongolians play?

ankle bone game

Our traditional games are: Sheep Anklebone games, Khorol, Dembee, Puzzle, and Ice Knucklebone game. Each one is different creatures way of playing.

What types of games were popular with Mongolian children?

Shagai

Sheep Ankle bone games are popular in Mongolian children. This is a traditional game that from our ancestors left for us.

Did Mongolians play chess?

Yes, chess is a popular game in Mongolia. It is usually played by two people, but can also be played by more. The game is played on a board with 64 squares.

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