2,000-Year-Old Chinese Board Game Unearthed

Chinese scientists from the Shaanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology discovered a 2,000-year-old board game resembling chess in Shaanxi province. The game, known as Liubo or “six sticks,” was popular during the Western Han dynasty from 202 BC to 9 AD. Archaeologists unearthed a complete Liubo set within a tomb, including the game board, dice, and playing pieces.

Liubo differed from chess in its use of sticks as dice and its emphasis on chance alongside strategy. Evidence suggests the game was played by people of all social classes, from emperors to commoners. Historical texts describe Liubo as complex and requiring skill, but also susceptible to luck.

The discovery offers insight into leisure activities and cultural life in ancient China. Researchers hope further study of the Liubo set and related artifacts will reveal more about the game's rules and significance. The find adds to the understanding of the evolution of strategy games across cultures and time.