Hnefatafl is the most popular variant of the ancient Viking strategy game known as Tafl. In this asymmetric game, one side defends the king while the other attempts to capture him.
This page explains Hnefatafl rules, Tafl variants, and how to play online.
King’s Table lets you experience the ancient Viking board game Tafl, especially Hnefatafl, often translated as “King’s Table” and sometimes called Viking chess.
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▶ Play Hnefatafl (Tafl) Online
Tafl is a family of Nordic strategy games played by Vikings across Scandinavia long before chess spread across Europe. The most well-known version is Hnefatafl, where a king and his defenders must escape from attackers.
Unlike chess, Tafl is asymmetric — attackers typically outnumber defenders, and the two sides have completely different win conditions.
All pieces move in straight lines horizontally or vertically, like a rook in chess. Pieces can travel across any number of empty squares but cannot jump over other pieces.
Pieces are captured by trapping them between two opposing pieces on opposite sides. Once surrounded, the piece is removed from the board.
Tafl boards include important special squares that affect gameplay:
In some rule sets, these squares can also act as part of a capture, making them strategically important.
Hnefatafl, often translated as “King’s Table”, is the best-known game in the Tafl family. Modern Tafl players commonly use rule sets such as Fetlar and Copenhagen, which share the same core ideas but differ in important ways.
These rule differences can significantly change strategy, especially how the king is captured and how aggressive each side can be.
You can play Tafl online instantly with King’s Table. No download or installation required — just open the game and start playing.
What is Tafl?
Tafl is an ancient Viking strategy game where one side defends a king while the other side attacks.
Can attackers use the throne to capture?
In many rule sets, the throne can be used as part of a capture, but the exact rules vary depending on the variant.
What is the best Tafl variant?
Fetlar and Copenhagen are the most popular modern rule sets, offering balanced and competitive gameplay.
Is Tafl like chess?
Tafl shares similar movement rules with chess but differs because it is asymmetric, with different objectives for each side.
Can I play Tafl online for free?
Yes, you can play Tafl online for free in your browser with King’s Table.