The Mayday Games Blog

Crokinole is a wonderful and simple game to play for family and friends all over the globe. Typically, it is a two-player game, but the rules change when adding Crokinole three- or four-players rules. Here, we will explain how you can enjoy the game with as many players as possible.

Crokinole 4-Player Rules

When playing with two, Crokinole is a fun game where challengers oppose each other with 12 discs. With four players, each player receives six discs to shoot and must use strategy to win the game. Players sit on opposite sides in teams and shoot the same color of discs according to their side. Going clockwise, each player takes turns placing a disc on the perimeter of the circle nearest them and flicking it into the nearest playing area.

Crokinole Game Pieces

The pieces to this game are pretty simple. A wooden board that is hand-crafted or commercially made, along with a handful of discs, is all you need to enjoy a fun game. In the beginning, a carpenter named Eckhardt Wettlaufer created the first Crokinole board for his son in 1875. He made a board for him, who displayed it on his bedroom wall. Oddly, Eckhardt's son did not play the game. Since then, the game has become popular in Canada and the United States, with the addition of interest worldwide.

Crokinole Name

Crokinole comes from the French word croquignole, referring to a biscuit or cookie. Like a donut, the Crokinole board is round in shape, and its appearance compares to the small round pastry. Additionally, it has an etymological term of "fillip," which refers to a flicking motion with the thumb and finger.

Crokinole History

The theory behind the history of this game comes from the Amish and Mennonite communities and dates as far back as 1860. Although no evidence supports it, many feel it was considered a healthy pastime replacing unsavory gambling activities. Religious groups frowned upon the game, but its popularity was undeniable, and people from South Asia and Britain have continued to enjoy the game for a century and a half.

Crokinole Evolution

Crokinole is similar in some ways to the game of Carrom. Carrom originated in India and is a version of table billiards. As time passed, Crokinole became so popular that U.S. companies like Sears-Roebuck and Montgomery Ward chose to offer the game commercially through the mail to thousands of families.

Crokinole Today

By the late 19th century, the game of Crokinole was a favorite pastime for all families as an alternative form of entertainment. It was a fun way to pass the time before television and radio existed. In 1999, fans established a World Crokinole Championship Tournament in Tavistock, Ontario, Canada, that still takes place annually.

Crokinole Tournaments

The game of Crokinole has been popular for over 130 years. Small tournaments are standard in small clubs, church basements, town and fire halls, and private homes. In Tavistock, Ontario, the birthplace, it is no surprise to see groups get together daily to play the game, especially in the colder months.

Crokinole Rules

While the game was originally designed for two players, up to four can play with minor modifications. Each player takes their turn flipping a disc to score points from the outer edge of the board. Optionally, players can use a small cue stick to assist them with the same result. It can be a very competitive game when a player has the task of contacting another disc to avoid a foul. It has depth and strategy for players who invest time in the game. The more experience players gain, the better they become at the game.

Crokinole for Beginners

If you have not enjoyed playing this game, now is the perfect time to start. It can be a simple game of fun or a strategic game of skill for those who wish to immerse themselves. No matter your plan, Crokinole is a fantastic and friendly game for all ages. Before you can understand the differences of adding a third or fourth player, be sure you understand Crokinole’s basic rules and strategies.

Crokinole 3-Player Rules at a Glance

The Crokinole three-player rules are much different than playing in teams. Independent play is the key, and there are no partners when playing by the official rules. Each participant must shoot the other player's disc independently. For three, it requires a board specifically designed for the game, unlike the standard version. It has markings that divide the board into three areas, different from the traditional board’s four areas.

Crokinole Rules for 4-Player Fun

It’s easy to adjust the game to suit four players. In fact, the best part of playing the strategic game of Crokinle is teaming up with another couple to show off your skills, flicking discs to win the game. You can partner with friends and team up to sit on opposite sides of the board for a riveting game. Different colors on your discs will help you to keep track and create a fast-paced adventure using tournament rules for an exciting match!

Crokinole Rules Two Players Exception

The classic game of Crokinole means you will be your own team, strategizing your moves as you take turns back and forth. The original play of this game requires just two players, and over time it has become so popular that people meet from around the globe to participate in tournament play.

Crokinole 4-Player Rules Recap

Crokinole is a fantastic and strategic game that attracts players of all ages. Whether playing a game of two or learning Crokinole three-player or four-player rules, this is a game to pass down through generations. People from all walks of life come together from around the globe to participate in this fantastic competition. Whether you enjoy Crokinole's simple pleasures in your home or want to take on the challenge of a tournament, you will surely enjoy its strategic adventure. Take the time to learn the game and enjoy its rewards while spending quality time with your family and friends.