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Learn Konane: Guide

2 players · 10–20 min · Moderate to learn

Overview

Konane is an ancient Hawaiian game often called Hawaiian Checkers. Unlike most checkers variants, the board starts completely full, and players capture by jumping. The player who cannot move loses - a last-move-loses structure.

History

Konane was played by Hawaiian royalty and commoners for centuries before Western contact. Games could have significant stakes, and the game was banned by missionaries in the 19th century but survived among Hawaiian communities.

Around the world

  • Hawaiian Checkers
Looking for the rules?Setup, turns and how to win at Konane are on the Rules tab.
Read the full rules

Strategy

  • Plan several moves ahead

    The board state changes rapidly.

  • Try to create positions where you have more jumping options than your opponent.

  • Be careful with multi-jumps

    They might leave you with no future moves.

  • Control areas of the board where you can force favorable exchanges.

  • Look for positions that give you moves while restricting your opponent.

  • The endgame requires precise calculation

    Count the remaining moves for both sides.

  • Early captures aren't always best

    Consider the resulting position.

Frequently asked questions

Be the last player able to make a move. When you cannot jump, you lose.

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