SUNGKA – Here is the interesting story behind this classing Filipino board, which most of us probably didn’t know.
Sungka is more than just a game; it’s a cherished part of Filipino culture and Southeast Asian heritage. Played across the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and nearby areas, Sungka brings together strategy, skill, and social fun.
This traditional board game has been a favorite pastime in Southeast Asia for generations. Known by different names like congkak, dakon, and chonka, Sungka has a fascinating history and cultural importance that make it much more than just a game.
Sungka is played on a board with two rows of seven small holes and two larger end holes. Players use small objects like shells or marbles, and the goal is to gather more pieces in your end hole, called the store, than your opponent.
History
Sungka’s origins trace back to the 17th century, with evidence showing it was widely played across Southeast Asia. Over time, the game spread due to migration and cultural exchanges, reaching various parts of the region.
Origin
The name “congklak” likely comes from an Indonesian term for small shells used in the game. In Malaysia, it might be related to the word “congak,” meaning “to count” in old Malay. There’s even a legend in Malaysia about a fisherman who invented the game to pass the time during rainy days.
How to Play
Here’s how to play Sungka:
- Take Turns: Players alternate turns, moving pieces in a counter-clockwise direction around the board.
- Distribute Pieces: On your turn, pick up all the pieces from one hole and distribute them one-by-one into the subsequent holes, including your own store but skipping your opponent’s store.
- Get Another Turn: If the last piece lands in your store, you earn another turn.
- Capture Pieces: If the last piece lands in an empty hole on your side, you capture the pieces from the corresponding hole on your opponent’s side.
- End the Game: The game concludes when all the pieces are in the stores. The player with the most pieces in their store at the end wins.
Sungka is not just a game but a way to develop counting skills and strategic thinking. Its historical presence in artifacts and cultural practices emphasizes its importance across different cultures.