Abalone: Classic Board Game Now on Smartphone

Translating classic tabletop games to mobile can be a bit hit or miss, but it's increasingly common. While iconic classics like Uno and chess have made their way to mobile in various forms, Abalone has been less represented, with only one version available until now.

Abalone may sound unusual, but its gameplay is deceptively simple, reminiscent of checkers. Played on a hexagonal board, it pits two sides—white and black marbles—against each other. The objective is to push at least six of your opponent's marbles off the board. The game has a range of rules dictating movement and strategies for pushing marbles off the board.

Though it appears complex, Abalone is surprisingly easy to master. The mobile version retains the strategic depth beloved by longtime players, while offering newcomers a chance to discover its surprising intricacies. It also features multiplayer, allowing you to compete with friends.

No, not the seafood
While I was familiar with Abalone, I hadn't delved deeply into it until now. The mobile version seems tailored for fans of the original tabletop game, with no clear tutorials or onboarding for new players.

However, there is undoubtedly a market for Abalone enthusiasts. With numerous online chess options available, a digital platform for Abalone can help elevate its profile among both casual and dedicated fans of this competitive puzzler.

If Abalone isn't your cup of tea but you're looking to challenge your mind, explore our list of the top 25 best puzzle games on iOS and Android. From casual arcade fun to brain-busting challenges, there's something for everyone.