How to play Kubb?

Simple 4-step explanation of the game

Table of content
Kubb field setup
The goal of the game
Basic Kubb rules
Step by step gameplay
Winning the game
Common mistakes beginners make
Why Kubb is more than just throwing blocks

Kubb is easy to learn, but the game becomes more interesting the better you understand the rules and flow. Below you will find a clear, step by step explanation of how to play Kubb, from setting up the field to winning the game. Whether you are playing for the first time or want to sharpen your understanding, this guide covers the essentials.

Kubb field setup

Kubb is played on a rectangular field that measures approximately 5 by 8 meters. The field size does not have to be exact, especially for casual games, but keeping these proportions helps the game flow well.

Each team stands on one short side of the field, called the baseline.

You will need:
• 10 kubbs (wooden blocks)
• 6 throwing batons
• 1 king
• 4 corner markers

Place five kubbs evenly along each baseline. The king is placed upright in the center of the field. Mark the four corners so both teams clearly see the playing area.

The goal of the game

The goal of Kubb is to knock down all five kubbs on your opponent’s baseline and only then knock over the king. If you hit the king before all opponent kubbs are down, you immediately lose the game.

This single rule is what creates tension and strategy throughout every match.

Basic Kubb rules

Kubb is played in two teams, with one to six players per team.

Important basic rules:
• Throws are always underhand
• You throw from behind your baseline
• You aim at wooden kubbs only, never at players
• The king may only be targeted at the very end

Teams take turns throwing all six batons during their turn.

Step by step gameplay

1. Opening throw
   One team starts by throwing all six batons at the opponent’s baseline kubbs. Any kubbs that fall are removed from the baseline.
2. Throwing back fallen kubbs
   The defending team takes the fallen kubbs and throws them back into the opponent’s half of the field. These kubbs become field kubbs. They must land upright if possible.
3. Field kubbs first
   Before a team may aim at baseline kubbs again, all field kubbs must be knocked down. This is a crucial strategic element of Kubb.
4. Baseline kubbs
   Once all field kubbs are down, the team may aim at the opponent’s baseline kubbs again.
5. The king
   When a team has knocked down all opponent kubbs, both field and baseline, they may use any remaining throws to aim at the king. Knock down the king and you win.

Winning the game

You win by knocking over the king after all other kubbs have been knocked down. If the king falls at any other moment, even by accident, the game is instantly lost.

This rule rewards control, patience and accuracy over raw power.

Common mistakes beginners make

Many first time players make the same mistakes:
• Throwing too hard instead of aiming accurately
• Forgetting to knock down field kubbs first
• Standing too close to the field kubbs instead of using distance wisely
• Rushing the final throw at the king

Kubb rewards calm play and smart positioning much more than strength.

Why Kubb is more than just throwing blocks

Kubb combines physical skill with tactical thinking. Each throw influences the next round, and small decisions can completely change the outcome of the game. That is why Kubb works just as well as a relaxed backyard game or a competitive tournament sport.

Once you understand how to play Kubb, every match becomes more engaging and strategic.

If you want to dive deeper, explore detailed Kubb rules, official field dimensions or tips to improve your throwing technique.