Shisima, a 3-in-a-row strategy game for 2 players, originated in Kenya. The game pieces are meant to represent fast-moving water bugs (shisima means body of water ). The only required materials are 6 counters (3 of each color) and a game board. The counters can be anything from around the house --- legos, coins, etc. You can print off a game board HERE or make your own.
The game starts with players facing each other from opposite sides of the board. Players place their counters on 3 intersection points opposite from one another as in the photo. Players will be moving their counters to open spots on the game board. The possible spots are the 8 intersection points along the perimeter of the board and also the center shisima intersection. 2 counters cannot occupy the same spot on the board.
So what's the goal? Players try to get their 3 game pieces in a straight row through the center of the board (getting 3-in-a-row along the side of the board is not a winning move). Players take turns moving 1 piece per turn. A player can only move his or her own counter to an open spot 1 move away. You are not allowed to jump pieces -- players are just sliding a counter either 1 spot along the perimeter of the board or to the center shisima on the board. Players continue to take turns until someone gets 3-in-a-row. There's a lot of strategy involved so this game can keep children entertained for long periods of time!
Watch the video below to see the game in action and read more about the game HERE.
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