TZAAR is an abstract strategy game from the renowned GIPF series, in which two players face off in an intellectual duel using 30 pieces divided into three types: Tzaars, Tzarras, and Totts. These three types form a trinity that complements itself and cannot exist without each other. The goal is to deprive the opponent of one type of piece or place them in a position where they can no longer perform the mandatory capture. It is a struggle for balance between strength and survival, where every move carries weight.
1. Initial Setup
All 60 pieces (30 white and 30 black) are placed on the board – each player receives 6 Tzaars, 9 Tzarras, and 15 Totts.
All pieces start as single units of equal strength.
2. Two Types of Moves: Capturing and Strengthening
Each turn consists of two moves:
- The first move is always a mandatory capture: the player must capture at least one opponent's piece.
- The second move may be another capture or strengthening a piece by stacking it on top of another friendly piece, increasing its power (height).
3. The Importance of Power and Trinity
- A piece’s power is determined by its height (number of stacked pieces), not by its type.
- A player can win in two ways:
- the opponent loses an entire type of piece (Tzaars, Tzarras, or Totts),
- the opponent ends up in a situation where they cannot perform the mandatory capture.
♜ TZAAR is pure strategy in its sharpest form, where victory belongs to the one who best balances risk, strength, and patience. ♜
