Dödläge

Dödläge refers to a situation in certain board games, particularly those involving simultaneous moves, where two or more players or pieces are in a state of mutual stalemate or deadlock, preventing either from making a beneficial move. The term is most commonly associated with the strategy board game *Go*, but it can also appear in other abstract games like *Hex* or *Reversi*.

In the context of *Go*, dödläge occurs when neither player can make a move that improves their position, often due to a balance of opposing forces where any move would allow the opponent to gain an advantage. This can lead to a situation where the game is effectively over, though the final score is still determined by counting the territory controlled by each player’s stones. Players often aim to avoid dödläge by maintaining flexibility in their positions and leaving themselves with viable options.

The concept is closely related to *sentaku* (選択), a Japanese term describing a critical decision point in Go where a player must choose between two or more seemingly equal options, each leading to a different outcome. Dödläge can arise when both players have reached such a state, resulting in a static endgame where no further progress is possible.

While dödläge is a natural part of Go’s complexity, it underscores the importance of strategic depth and foresight in the game. Players use techniques like *ko threats*, *territory control*, and *liberties* to avoid unnecessary deadlocks and ensure their positions remain dynamic until the end. The term reflects the balance between competition and strategy in abstract games, where patience and calculation are as critical as aggressive play.