Abalone: Classic Board Game Now on Smartphone

Translating classic tabletop games to mobile can be a mixed bag, but it's a trend that has gained momentum over the years. While we've seen iconic games like Uno and chess make their mark in various mobile formats, Abalone has been somewhat underrepresented—until now, that is. We've only had one version documented so far, but this new release is set to change that.

Abalone might sound unusual, but its gameplay is deceptively simple, reminiscent of checkers. The game is played on a hexagonal board with two sets of marbles, one white and one black. Your goal is to strategically push at least six of your opponent's marbles off the board. Though the rules can seem intricate at first, they are straightforward once you get the hang of it. The key is to avoid being caught in a disadvantageous position and to effectively maneuver your marbles to outsmart your opponent.

This mobile version of Abalone maintains the strategic depth that seasoned players cherish, while offering newcomers a chance to delve into its surprising complexity. It also features multiplayer mode, allowing you to challenge friends and test your skills head-to-head.

No, not the seafoodWhile I was familiar with Abalone, I hadn't explored it in depth until now. The mobile version seems tailored specifically for fans of the original tabletop game, with no apparent tutorials or introductory guides for new players.

However, it's evident that there is a dedicated audience for Abalone. With the abundance of online chess options available, having a digital platform where Abalone can be played easily is likely to elevate its profile among both casual and dedicated fans of this competitive puzzler.

If Abalone doesn't pique your interest, there are plenty of other options to challenge your mind. Check out our curated list of the top 25 best puzzle games on iOS and Android, featuring everything from casual arcade games to brain-teasing puzzles.