Board game apparatus

Abstract

The present invention is a game apparatus comprising a board formed from a plurality of hexagonal shape spaces. The shapes are linearly and vertically disposed to provide for a preceding column to be offset from subsequent column. Located on opposite sides of the board are goals. A first set of distinguishable playing piece and a second set of playing pieces are provided. Each set of playing pieces includes seven components: a Ballcarrier, a Fullback, two Flankers and three Guards. The Ballcarrier is the only piece that can score and scoring is achieved when the Ballcarrier crosses or lands on the opposing team's goal line. The other pieces have various strength levels, which provide for each piece to move a specific number of spaces and at a specific configuration. Pieces are not taken or jump, so that all pieces remain on board during the play of the game. Other pieces have the capabilities of blocking, which allows for the piece to move onto a space occupied by an opponent, and moving that opponent to an adjacent space.

Description

[0001] This is a File Wrapper Continuation of application Ser. No. 09/659,526 filed on Sep. 12, 2000.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates generally to a unique, novel chess like football and entertaining football board game apparatus and more particularly to a board game apparatus designed and configured to be played by two opposing individuals on a novel board having a plurality of hexagonal shapes, and a plurality of novel pieces, each novel piece adapted to move in a particular way, to simulate football, to innately provide a mentally stimulating game that is not only captivating and amusing, but challenging mentally as well, and one that can be played quickly yet differs considerably when compared to conventional Chess, and that utilizes the strategies and tactics of conventional football as played in the United States.

[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0005] Board games have been around for centuries and have proven to be successful by inherently providing an entertaining environment. Due to their success and the various interest and degrees of knowledge amongst individuals who participate, board games vary from being simple in concept, such as the popular “Chutes and Ladders” to complex and difficult to master, such as conventional chess.

[0006] Many have tried to develop board games that are both exciting and challenging. Many concentrate on certain area or arena. For example, chess, a very popular game, has been re-invented and configured in several patents. For example in U.S. Pat. No. 4,580,787, issued to Baker and U.S. Pat. No. 3,920,247 issued to Jenkins, there is disclosed a modified chess game having a hexagonal shape board including hexagonal spaces, and having spaces of three different colors. The use of this shape of board enables two or three players to participate simultaneously. Also included are conventional chess playing pieces that will operate in the same manner as conventional chess. Consequently, this game offers a different dimension on a well-known game.

[0007] Another chess-like game is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,964,747 issued to Balmforth. In this game, like Baker and Jenkins, a hexagonal playing board is provided. Each player is given a plurality of pieces, wherein each piece has a particular function and moveability, which differs when compared to conventional chess pieces. In essence, this game, when compared to chess, includes more pieces, but enables a greater number of individuals to participate. In addition, due to the hexagonal shape of the spaces on the board, a greater versatility in the types of moves, which may be made with the playing pieces, substantially, increasing the challenge generally associated with the game of conventional chess.

[0008] Other board games have been developed which try to simulate a popular sport game, such as football. An example of such a board game is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,245,830 issued to Sheffield. Others have developed games by combining two or more of their favorite pastimes. In U.S. Pat. No. 4,443,011, issued to Sheridan, there is disclosed a game that incorporates every aspect of the game of football as well as the concept of chess. These games that are geared towards the sporting enthusiasts are limiting their audience by providing games that may be challenging, but due to its many rules, some players can find it to be a bit cumbersome to learn, especially for those who are not fanatics about the particular sport.

[0009] Accordingly, it is seen that there is a need to provide a chess like football game that is exciting so as to provide a game that is desirable to play continually and repetitively. This game should be somewhat mentally challenging, yet simple enough to be enjoyed and played by a wide variety of individuals, regardless of their age and mental magnitude. The game should be quick pace, entertaining and mentally stimulating, so as to provide an ultimate board game to be invariably enjoyed during each moment of play.

[0010] As will be seen, the present invention achieves its intended purposes, objectives and advantages by accomplishing the needs as identified above, through a new, useful and unobvious combination of component elements, which is simple to use, with the utilization of a minimum number of functioning parts, at a reasonable cost to manufacture, assemble, test and by employing only readily available material.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention is a novel chess like football board game apparatus which offers a challenging and entertaining environment. This particular game is designed and configured to be played by two players. The play is similar to chess, but has a smaller board, fewer pieces and simpler more exciting techniques of play. Thus, the present invention provides for a game, which simulates football via pieces, moves, board and rules which enable football like play. Enabling such an arrangement, the board game apparatus of the present invention comprises a board having plurality of novel pieces moveably located on the novel particular board.

[0012] The board itself is specifically designed and configured to provide for a novel shape and/or configuration. Located along the upper surface of the novel board is a plurality of hexagonal shape spaces arranged contiguously in multiple columns. The shapes are linearly and vertically disposed to provide for a preceding column to be offset from subsequent column. This will provide for the spaces of odd number rows to be aligned vertically with each other and the spaces of the even number rows to be aligned vertically with each other.

[0013] These spaces define the area of movement for each particular player. This board is divided into a first side and a second side. The first side defining the first player's starting area and a second side defining the second player's starting area. Located at opposite ends, or the top end and the bottom end, of each side is a goal line. Landing on this space or goal provides for the player to score. Thus, the “GOALS” define the object of the present invention. Since the game is to be played by two players, only two goals are provided.

[0014] Each player is given a set of seven (7) playing pieces, having four different playing components. Each set consists of one Ballcarrier, one Fullback, two Flankers, and three Guards, to constitute the seven playing pieces per set.

[0015] The object of the game is to have the Ballcarrier travel from his playing side to the opponents playing side, for crossing the goal line. Once the player lands in the goal, he scores a point.

[0016] Victory is determined by who scores the most points. After each point the game is re-started. The game continues as pre-determined by the players in regard to the length of time of play or who achieves the maximum number of goals.

[0017] To enable victory, the various playing components are used to advantageously block the opponent's playing pieces and/or to move his own playing pieces to take advantage of the field and location of his opponent's pieces on the field (playing board).

[0018] Enabling such an arrangement, each different component (or playing piece) possesses certain characteristics and movability qualities. The Ballcarrier is the only piece that can score and as such this piece can only move one space at a time. The movement (one space advancement) can take place in any direction on the board. This piece, the Ballcarrier, cannot be blocked nor can it block any of the other playing components of the opponent's set. Blocking being defined as the ability to land on a space occupied by an opposing opponents, and moving the opponent's piece to another location.

[0019] The piece labeled the Fullback can move any number of spaces in a straight line. A straight line is considered the hexagonal spaces that are alignable with each other. This piece is adapted to block any of the opponent's pieces, with the exception of the Ballcarrier.

[0020] Movement in any direction can occur via the Flanker. The limitation with this piece is that it can only advance one, two or three spaces. The Flanker offers blockage to the opposing Flanker and the opposing Guards.

[0021] The piece labeled the Guard can move only one space in a direction away from its own goal. This piece cannot block any pieces.

[0022] Accordingly, one of the primary objects of the present invention is to provide a fun and challenging board game apparatus.

[0023] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide for a board game apparatus that will overcome the deficiencies, shortcomings, and drawbacks of prior board games and methods of playing thereof.

[0024] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method of playing a challenging game, wherein the method comprises of two sets of playing pieces. Each set of playing pieces include variable positioning on each section of the game board, and the players alternately move the desired pieces in accordance to the rules of the game, so as to enable the Ballcarrier to move onto the goal space.

[0025] Still another object of the instant invention is to incorporate new playing pieces having different movement capabilities onto a board having a plurality of hexagonal shaped spaces.

[0026] A further object of the present invention is to design a game with a minimal amount of players that is still mentally stimulating as well as pleasantly enjoyable.

[0027] Still a further object of the present invention is to provide a board game apparatus that is quickly played when compared to conventional chess, and one that utilizes strategies and tactics of the conventional game of football, as well as provide a game wherein the variability of moves is increased by varying the initial positioning of the piece during the initiation of the game.

[0028] Another object of the present invention is to provide a board game that provides at least one playing piece which blocks the opponent's playing pieces, playing pieces are capable of moving opponent's playing pieces when the same space is occupied, and moving a specific playing piece to a specific space on the board establishes scoring.

[0029] Yet a further object of the present invention, to be specifically enumerated herein, is to provide a board game apparatus in accordance with proceeding objects and which will conform to conventional forms of manufacture, be of simple construction and easy to use so as to provide a game that would be economically feasible, long lasting and relatively trouble free during utilization.

[0030] Although there have been many inventions related to board game device, none of these inventions provide the benefits associated with the present invention. The present invention meets the requirements of the simplified design, compact size, low initial cost, low operating cost, ease of utilization and understandability, and requiring a minimal amount of learning to successfully master the game of the present invention. In addition, the present invention is a game that can easily be appreciated and enjoyed by anyone whether they are American Football fans, Chess players, or are individuals being introduced to a new game.

[0031] The foregoing has outlined some of the more pertinent objects of the invention. These objects should be construed to be merely illustrative of some of the more prominent features and application of the intended invention. Many other beneficial results can be obtained by applying the disclosed invention in a different manner or modifying the invention within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, a fuller understanding of the invention may be had by referring to the detailed description of the preferred embodiments in addition to the scope of the invention defined by the claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] FIG. 1 is a top view of an example of a playing board used in the board game apparatus of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 2a is a top view of an example of a playing piece known as the Ballcarrier, used in the board game apparatus of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 2b is a top view of an example the playing piece known as the Fullback, used in the board game apparatus of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 2c is a top view of an example the playing piece known as the Flanker, used in the board game apparatus of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 2d is a top view of an example the playing piece known as the Guard, used in the board game apparatus of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 3a is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating the movement of a Ballcarrier.

[0038] FIG. 3b is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating the movement of a Fullback.

[0039] FIG. 3c is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating the movement of a Flanker.

[0040] FIG. 3d is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating the movement of a Guard.

[0041] FIG. 4a is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating a slant block.

[0042] FIG. 4b is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating a straight block.

[0043] FIG. 4c is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating a goal line blocked that is angled.

[0044] FIG. 4d is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating an alternative goal line block that is angled.

[0045] FIG. 4e is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating yet another alternative of a goal line blocked that is angled.

[0046] FIG. 4f is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating a dual piece blockage, a move that is not permitted.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a partial view of the board used with the board game apparatus, illustrating an example of inhibiting movement between non-blocking pieces.

[0048] Similar reference numerals refer to similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0049] With reference to the drawings and in particular to FIGS. 1-3d, there is shown the novel chess like football board game apparatus of the present invention. This particular football like game is structured so as to be played by two players. The play is similar to chess, but has a smaller board, fewer pieces and simpler more exciting techniques of play. Thus, the present invention provides for a game, which simulates football via pieces, moves, board and rules which enable football like play. As seen throughout the various views, the board game apparatus of the present invention comprises a board 10 (see FIGS. 1, 3a-3d) having a plurality of novel moveable pieces 20 (see FIGS. 2a-3d) that are adapted to be slideably located thereon.

[0050] The preferred embodiment for the board 10 is shown in FIG. 1. As seen in this embodiment, the board 10 includes a substantially rectangular overall configuration. Located on the top surface of the novel board is a plurality of hexagonal shaped spaces 12, arranged contiguously in multiple columns, which are arranged by abutting the sides to form vertical columns and offset horizontal rows. These spaces are designed to accept the novel moveable pieces 20 (shown in FIGS. 2a-3d) of the game of the present invention.

[0051] The board itself is specifically designed and configured to provide for a novel shape and/or configuration. As seen in FIG. 1, the board includes a substantially rectangular configuration to provide for the board to include approximately seven (7) columns. As further seen, the hexagonal shaped spaces in a proceeding column are larger in number that the hexagonal shaped shapes in a subsequent column. This will provide for an alternating number of shapes or spaces between the odd and even columns. Thus, it is seen that in the preferred embodiment, the odd number columns, (first third, fifth and seventh column) include six shapes or spaces, while the even number columns (second, fourth, and sixth column) include five shapes or spaces. This arrangement will provide for the shapes or spaces to be linearly and vertically disposed to innately allow for a preceding column to be offset from subsequent column. Such a configuration will provide for the spaces of odd number rows to be aligned vertically with each other and spaces of the even number rows to be aligned vertically with each other.

[0052] It is to be understood by those skilled in the art that the number of columns, the number of rows, and the number of spaces in each column and the number of spaces in each row can be increased and/or decreased for increasing or decreasing the difficulty of the game.

[0053] For aesthetics, each preceding space can be a color or shade that is different from a subsequent space, so as to add dimension and character to the board. If desired, a logo, design or the like, can be formed on the board by coloring or shading the appropriate space.

[0054] As seen in FIG. 1, a first side 14a and a second side 14b define the board. The division is shown via dash line 16. The division can also be represented by providing the spaces of one side of the board to be shaded dark or lighter than the second side of the board. The dash line can be an indicia on the board for defining each opponent's side, but in the preferred embodiment this line would be eliminated, and thus it is seen that the use of this line, for the preferred embodiment, is for illustrative purposes only.

[0055] Located centrally at the edge of the board, on each side, and extending through half a hexagon is an indicia for representing a goal line 18. Crossing this goal line with the particular moveable piece establishes a point earned and the player with the most points is deemed the winner and thus causes the game to be terminated. Since there are two players, two goal lines are provided.

[0056] Each player is given a set of seven (7) novel and unique playing pieces, having four different playing components. Each set consists of one Ballcarrier 20a (see FIG. 2a), one Fullback 20b (see FIG. 2b), two Flankers 20c (see FIG. 2c), and three Guards 20d (see FIG. 2d). Combined these components form the seven playing pieces. It is noted that since the Flankers in each set are substantially identical and the Guards in each set are substantially identical, only one Flanker and one Guard is shown in the drawings. As seen, the figures illustrated a disc-like structure used for representing a playing peace. It is to be understood, by those skilled in the art, that the playing piece can include any shape, structure or design that is representative as to its position.

[0057] For distinguishing between the players, preferably, the first set of playing pieces for the first player is of a different color than the second set of playing pieces for the second player.

[0058] The object of the game is to score points by simulating football plays by having the Ballcarrier 20a travel from his playing side to the opponents playing side, in order to eventually cross the goal line. Once the player crosses in the goal line, he scores a point. The player with the most points is considered victorious and thus the game is terminated.

[0059] To enable simulated football plays, the various playing components are used to advantage by obstructing movement of the opponent's playing pieces and/or are used to “block” so as to move and relocate the opponent's playing pieces, while moving his own playing pieces in order to take advantage of the field and location of his opponent's pieces on the field (playing board).

[0060] Permitting such an arrangement, each different component (or playing piece) possesses novel certain characteristics and movability qualities. Thus, to enable the present invention provides for a particular combination of hexagonal spaces and a different game pieces to enable game play and different game pieces to enable game play movements and piece interaction in order to simulate football action. The Ballcarrier 20a, as seen in FIGS. 2a and 3a, is the only piece that can score. This piece can only move one space at a time. The movement (one space advancement), as shown in FIG. 3a, can take place in any direction on the board. This piece, the Ballcarrier 20a, cannot be “blocked” nor can it “block” any of the other playing components of the opponent's set.

[0061] Blocking being defined as the ability to move the opponent's piece to an adjacent space. Pieces do have the ability to prevent movement. This is known as “inhibiting movement”. Thus if a piece is located in front of an opposing player's piece and prevented by rule from blocking that piece, then that piece must move around the “inhibiting” piece. Thus, it is seen that the Ballcarrier does inhibit movement for all pieces. An example of this is illustrated in FIG. 5, as seen in this figure, the Ballcarrier for the red team (R) cannot move forward when it is his turn, since the Ballcarrier for the blue (B) team is located in front of him. The Ballcarrier for the red team must either move angularly or upwards, as indicated via the arrows. Accordingly, it is seen that the Ballcarrier for the blue team (B) is preventing or “inhibiting” movement for the red team's Ballcarrier.

[0062] As seen in FIGS. 2b and 3b, the piece labeled the Fullback 20b can move any number of spaces in a straight line. A straight line is considered the hexagonal spaces that are alignable with each other. The fullback 20b is adapted to block any of the opponent's pieces, with the exception of the Ballcarrier 20a.

[0063] Movement in any direction can occur via the Flanker, which is shown in FIGS. 2c and 3c. The limitation with this piece is that it can only advance one, two or three spaces. The Flanker offers blockage to the opposing Flanker and the opposing Guards.

[0064] The Guards 20d, illustrated in FIGS. 2d and 3c, can move one space towards the opposing goal. The Guard's limitation is that it cannot block, but it can be blocked in any direction.

Preferred Mode of Play

[0065] The following are suggested, but not mandatory, as some of the more pertinent mode of playing for the board game apparatus of the present invention. The strategy in this game is to progressively move a piece to the opponent's goal line, while protecting and guarding your own goal line. The movement should be to create running lanes for the Ballcarrier to move so that he can easily and quickly land on the opponent's goal space for scoring a point or points. The game proceeds by using moves as described for the particular pieces. It is not necessary to move any pieces other than the Ballcarrier for the game to proceed, or for the game to be completed. For victory, each player must play defensively as well as offensively.

Positioning/Initiation

[0066] To initiate play, a player must be selected for deciding on the first step for playing the board game of the present invention. For selecting a player, conventional means can be utilized, such as winning a coin toss, selecting the “correct” playing piece from a set of two, or the like.

[0067] Once a player has “won” the selection, he has two options. The first option is to place his players on his side of the board first and take his turn second; or his second option is to place his players on his side of the board second and take his turn first. Once the decision has been made the game proceeds in accordance to its rules. For initiating the game, the players can place his pieces anywhere on his side of the board. The exception is the Ballcarrier, which must be located at his goal line. The use of allowing the players to decide on the location of their playing piece provides for variability of the starting position for the various playing pieces.

[0068] Each player can move one piece in turn. The turns for each player occur alternatively.

Strategies and Opponent Advancement

[0069] Since the Ballcarrier is the only piece with the ability to score, and is the only piece that must start at a particular space, it is desirable to move this piece to the opponent's goal, and to score without “blocking” and without “inhibiting” movement. Thus it is seen that the other pieces objective is to cause the opponent's Ballcarrier to travel to the goal line by-way-of extra spaces. This can occur by “inhibiting movement” of the Ballcarrier to a particular space, by utilizing “non-blocking” and “blocking” pieces. Thus, making the Ballcarrier travel an obscure route to the goal line. For example as seen in FIG. 5, the Ballcarrier R must travel an excess space in order to reach his goal, as seen by the Ballcarrier B that is inhibiting vertical movement. All the pieces of the opposing team can inhibit movement of the opposing team's Ballcarrier, since this piece cannot “block”.

[0070] As defined above, the pieces have strength levels, which allow them to move onto a space, even if occupied by the opposing player. For this to happen, some of the pieces are able to “block”. If an opposing player is located on the desired space, and is blockable, then the moving “blockable” piece can remove the opposing player to an adjacent space. Thus, this provides for a game wherein all pieces remain on the board throughout the play of the game. This also provides for the playing pieces that cannot go over or through the opposing playing pieces.

Blocking and Inhibiting Movement

[0071] Some of the pieces are designed for “blocking” various opponents' playing pieces. “Blocking”, is defined as the ability to move the opponent's piece to an adjacent space.

[0072] There exist difference forms of “blocking” and only specific pieces can “block” specific playing pieces. Ballcarriers cannot “block” nor can they be “blocked”. Any player, except the Ballcarrier can “block” the Guards. The Flankers can “block” the opposing team's Flankers and Guards. The Fullbacks can block opposing teams Fullback, Flankers, and Guards.

[0073] “Blocking” of an opponent's piece can be slanted, straight, or angled. As seen in FIG. 4a, an example of slanted “block” is shown. A slant “block” occurs at a slant and is a linear movement. Slant “blocks” are all linear and “non-vertical” movement. As illustrated, the “blockable” piece 22, such as a Guard is in the pathway of a piece that can “block”, such as a Fullback 24. Hence, as seen in this FIG. 4a, the piece 24 now can move onto the space occupied by a piece 22 that can be blocked. Thus, this results in the removal of this blocked piece, and the relocation of it to the adjacent linear hexagonal space, as seen, in FIG. 4A. Therefore, this piece would be relocated onto space 26. This will provide for the movement of the “blocked piece and the relocation of the pieces to be in a linear slanted movement.

[0074] An example of a straight “block” is shown in FIG. 4b. As seen in this figure, any straight “block” occurs at a line parallel to an imaginary line that exists from goal to goal. Thus, the straight “blocks” are all line and vertical movements. As shown, the “blockable” piece 22, such as a Guard is in the pathway of a piece, which can “block”, such as a Fullback 24. Hence, as seen in this FIG. 4b, the piece 24 that can “block” moves onto the space occupied by a piece that can be “blocked” 22. This results in the removal of this “blocked” piece, and the relocation of it to the adjacent linear hexagonal space, as seen, this piece would now be located on space 26. This provides for the piece to be placed in the pathway of the “block”, which would place the piece onto space 26. This will provide for the movement of the “block” and the relocation of the pieces to be in a linear vertical movement.

[0075] Angle “blocks” are also allowed, but are only permitted when the pieces are located adjacent to the goal line. Once the “block” takes place, the “blocked” piece can be located on any adjacent space. Thus, the pieces which are “block able” (i.e. Flankers and Guards) must be located on the adjacent space of the goal line in order for the angled “blocking” to occur. Examples of angle “blocks” are shown in FIGS. 4c-4e. As seen in FIG. 4c, the piece that can be “blocked” 22, is located adjacent to the goal. A slanted “block” would provide for the piece to be located off the board, and thus is not permitted. Thus, the piece that can “block” 24 lands on the space occupied by the piece that can be “blocked” 22. This results in the removal of the “blocked” piece 22 and relocates it to an adjacent space 26. Thereby, it is seen that the angled “blocks” include a turn, which provides for the “blocking” to be non-linear.

[0076] As seen FIGS. 4d and 4e illustrate other examples of angle “blocks”, wherein other pieces are inhibiting relocation of the “blocked” piece, and thus force the relocation to occur at other adjacent spaces.

[0077] To “block”, a piece that can “block” (i.e. Fullback and Flanker) must move next to the piece that can be “blocked” (i.e. Flanker or Guard) on one turn, and then “block” on the next turn. A piece that can “block” may “block” immediately if a piece that can be “blocked” moves next to it. A piece that has just been “blocked” and that can “block” (i.e. Flankers) must wait a turn before “blocking” a piece that can be “blocked”, which has just “blocked” it, although the first piece to “block” may “block” the same piece further each turn.

[0078] “Inhibiting movement” is used to alter and change the pathway of the opposing players by redirecting movement. For example, as seen in FIG. 5, the Ballcarrier B is inhibiting vertical movement of the Ballcarrier R. As seen, this Ballcarrier R must travel an excess space in order to reach his goal. All the pieces of the opposing team can “inhibit movement” of the opposing team's Ballcarrier, since this piece cannot “block” nor can it be “blocked”. In turn, the Ballcarrier can “inhibit moves” of all the opposing team's pieces, since this piece cannot “block” nor can it be “blocked”.

Rules

[0079] Thus, the preferred rules for simulating football plays are:

[0080] 1. Game to be played by two players

[0081] 2. Choose hidden piece to see who wins “selection”

[0082] 3. The player that wins the selection can either:

[0083] a. place his players first any where on his side of the board in order to simulate football plays

[0084] b. place his players second and move first (takes the first turn)

[0085] 4. Each player moves one piece in turn

[0086] 5. The Ballcarrier must start in his own goal

[0087] 6. A goal can be scored if the ball carrier in the opposing team is still in his goal

[0088] 7. Attempt to guard your own goal and at the same time cross your opponents goal

[0089] 8. To block, a piece that can tackle must move next to the piece on one turn, and tackle on the next turn

[0090] 9. A piece may block immediately if a piece moves next to it

[0091] 10. A piece must wait a turn before blocking a piece, which has just blocked it, although the first piece to block may block the same piece further each turn

[0092] 11. Pieces cannot go over or through other pieces

[0093] 12. A piece can land on an occupied space, once landed, the previous piece is removed and relocated on an adjacent space

[0094] 13. Start over each time a goal is crossed. The player who scored is considered the winner of selection (see rule number 2 above)

[0095] 14. Play is for an agreed period of time or number of goals

[0096] 15. Above rules may be modified by agreement in order to make the game simple enough to be enjoyed and played by a wide variety of individuals.

[0097] While the present invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to an embodiment thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A board game enabling movement of game pieces in play simulating a game of football, the game comprising:

A playing board comprising:

A plurality of hexagonal spaces arranged contiguously in multiple columns extending

From a first end, and

A first and second goal indicia located at opposing ends of a single column; and two sets of game pieces, each set having:

A first piece having a first representative feature,

A second piece having a second representative feature,

A third and fourth piece, each having a third representative feature,

A fifth, sixth and seventh piece, each having a fourth representative feature; such that the sets of game pieces may be placed on the playing board in configurations of relative positions simulating two football teams in play.

2. A board game according to claim 1, wherein:

The plurality of spaces are arranged in four long columns alternating with three short columns each having five spaces.

3. A board game according to claim 2, wherein:

Each game piece has a disk shape.

4. A board game according to claim 1, wherein:

The board is divided into two equal halves, each half having distinguishing characteristics.

5. A board game according to claim 1, wherein:

Each representative feature is a different unique shape.

6. A board game according to claim 2, wherein:

Each representative feature is a different unique indicia.