3×4ruudukko

The 3×4 ruudukko (Finnish for "grid") is a traditional Finnish board game that combines elements of strategy and luck. It is played on a grid consisting of three rows and four columns, resembling a small checkerboard. The game is most commonly associated with the Finnish holiday season, particularly around Christmas, and is often played by families and friends during gatherings.

The objective of the 3×4 ruudukko is to be the first player to move all of their pieces to the opposite side of the board. Each player begins with a set of pieces placed on their starting row. Players take turns moving one piece at a time, either forward or sideways, but not backward. The movement is determined by rolling a die, with the number rolled dictating how many spaces the piece can move. If a player rolls a one, they must move their piece one space forward, while higher numbers allow for longer moves. However, if a player rolls a six, they must move their piece to the opposite side of the board immediately, regardless of its current position.

The game also includes a special rule involving the "Christmas tree" (Joulupuu in Finnish), a central column on the board. If a piece lands on the Christmas tree, it is removed from the game, adding an element of risk and strategy. The game ends when one player successfully moves all their pieces to the opposite side, declaring them the winner. The 3×4 ruudukko is a simple yet engaging game that emphasizes patience, strategy, and a bit of luck, making it a beloved pastime in Finnish culture.