In this review, I will be discussing the mancala board game with the Pressman Mancala set. This classic game of counting and strategy has been a favorite of mine for years, and I was excited to give this particular set a try.
Setting up the board was easy, with four stones in each spot to start the game. I played with a friend and we quickly got into the swing of things, trying to collect as many stones as possible in our goal spots while preventing the other player from doing the same. The game was a lot of fun and kept us entertained for hours.
The set itself is made of real wood and the multicolor stones add a nice pop of color to the board. However, I did notice that the pockets for the stones were a bit shallow, causing the stones to spill over from time to time. But overall, the quality of the set is good and I appreciate that it can be folded for easy storage and travel.
mancala board game: The History of Mancala
A timeless game that has been played for millennia is Mancala. It is a counting and strategy game that originated in ancient Africa. The game spread throughout the world, and today, it is one of the most popular board games played globally. The game is also known as “sowing,” “count and capture,” or “Kalaha.” Mancala has a rich history, and the game’s design and rules vary depending on the region. The game has been played traditionally, with stones, gems, or seeds, and it continues to be a favorite game of strategy and skill.
The Benefits of Playing Mancala
Several benefits, particularly for children, are offered by playing Mancala. It is a fun way to reinforce STEM and STEAM skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. The game also helps improve memory retention and concentration skills. Mancala is a great way to improve socialization skills as it is a two-player game, and it teaches children good sportsmanship, teamwork, and communication skills. The game’s rules are simple, making it easy to learn, and it can be played by children as young as six years old.
mancala board game: How to Play Mancala
On a board with two rows of six holes, Mancala is a two-player game played. The objective of the game is to capture the most stones or gems. The game starts with four stones or gems in each hole. Players take turns picking up and redistributing stones or gems, dropping them one by one in the succeeding holes in a counterclockwise direction. If the last stone or gem lands in a hole that already contains stones or gems, the player can pick up all of the stones or gems in that hole and continue with their turn. The game ends when one player’s side of the board is empty. The player with the most stones or gems in their store wins.
mancala board game: The Pressman Mancala Set
An excellent choice for both beginners and experienced players is the Pressman Mancala set. The set features a hinged wooden board that folds for easy storage, making it ideal for travel. The colorful gemstones included with the set are visually appealing, and the pockets are deep enough to prevent the stones from falling out. The set is tested for safety and quality, ensuring that it is safe for children to use. The Pressman Mancala set is an affordable option for anyone looking to add a classic game to their collection.
mancala board game: Customer Reviews
From satisfied customers, the Pressman Mancala set has received excellent reviews. Many customers appreciate the game’s nostalgic value, having played it in their childhood. Customers also note that the game is easy to set up and learn and provides hours of entertainment. Some customers have expressed concern that the pockets are too shallow, causing the gems to spill over. However, most customers find the set to be of good quality and value for the price.
mancala board game: Final Thoughts
An easy-to-learn classic game that provides hours of entertainment is Mancala. The Pressman Mancala set is a great option for anyone looking to purchase a new game for their collection. The set is affordable, portable, and easy to store, making it an excellent choice for families on the go. Playing Mancala offers several benefits, including improving critical thinking, memory retention, and socialization skills. Overall, the Pressman Mancala set is a highly recommended game that is sure to provide hours of fun for players of all ages.
Pros:
- Mancala is a classic game that has been enjoyed for thousands of years, and it continues to be a favorite game of counting and strategy around the world.
- The Pressman Mancala set is made of high-quality wood and comes with multicolored stones that add to the game’s visual appeal.
- Mancala reinforces STEM and STEAM skills, making it a great choice for parents and educators who want to encourage learning through play.
Cons:
- The pockets on the board may be too shallow for the size of the stones, which can make it challenging to play.
- The stones may fall out or slip into others when moved, which can lead to cheating or miscounting.
- The set does not come with a pouch for the stones, which can make it difficult to keep them all together and prevent them from getting lost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of classic board games and enjoy a good challenge, I highly recommend giving the Pressman Mancala set a try. It’s a great value for the price and provides hours of entertainment for all ages.
Questions & Answers:
Question: What age range is the Pressman Mancala set suitable for?
Answer: The set is recommended for ages 6 and up, making it a great choice for children and adults alike.
Question: Does the game come with instructions on how to play?
Answer: Yes, the set includes instructions on how to play Mancala, as well as tips and strategies for winning.
Question: Is the Pressman Mancala set a good value for the price?
Answer: Many reviewers have noted that the set is a great value for the price, offering hours of fun and high-quality materials at an affordable price point.
