culHuudok

culHuudok is a two-player abstract strategy game that originated in the fictional CulHuud archipelago. It is traditionally played on a 9x9 grid board. The game blends local tactics with strategic territorial control, requiring players to balance piece safety with influence over empty points.

Equipment consists of a square board marked with a 9-by-9 grid and a supply of flat stones in two colors. Players typically begin with the stones off the board and place one stone per turn on unoccupied intersections.

Rules: Stones do not move after placement. A stone or connected group with no liberties (adjacent empty intersections) is captured and removed. Players alternate placing stones; suicide is illegal unless the move simultaneously captures opposing stones, creating liberties. A Ko rule prevents immediate repetition, ensuring the game progresses.

Scoring and end: The game ends when both players pass or after a predetermined number of moves. Score is determined by counting controlled empty points (territory) and captured stones. The player with the higher total wins; in some settings, a komi is used to balance first-move advantage.

History and culture: CulHuudok has roots in the ceremonial and competitive traditions of the CulHuud people. Historical records suggest early play during harvest festivals, with modern tournaments and federations promoting standardized rules and youth participation. Variants exist in neighboring regions, each with slight rule adaptations.