Analysis of the Shahr-i Sokhta Board Game with 27 Pieces and Suggested Rules Based on the Game of Ur

The game boards found in Shahr-i Sokhta in Sistan, southeastern Iran, and Ur in Mesopotamia exhibit similar characteristics, as both wooden variants were discovered along with pieces and dice. This study examines the game board set discovered at grave no. 731 in the Bronze Age site of Shahr-i Sokhta. It analyses the different pieces to elucidate the game’s strategy and rules based on theoretical and archaeological evidence. By unveiling the meaning of certain game pieces, this study has the potential to reshape our understanding of board games in the Near East. We focus on a newly proposed rule to introduce a playable set and examine all discovered pieces and dice. Furthermore, the study contributes to the refinement of the game’s rules and opens avenues for future discussions. The suggested rules are intended to be historically accurate and imbue significance to each game board component.