Games from Different Cultures You Should Try: A Global Tour of Play
Gaming has always been more than just a way to pass time. It’s a window into history, identity, values, and community. From ancient strategy board games to modern digital masterpieces, games tell the story of a people, their struggles, their joy, and their traditions.
In this globalised world, trying games from different cultures doesn’t just expand your gaming library—it opens your mind. It’s the digital version of travel, allowing you to explore customs, logic, myths, and competitive spirit from every corner of the globe.
So, ready your dice, controllers, and touchscreens—we’re going on a worldwide gaming tour! These are the must-try games from different cultures that every curious gamer should experience.
1. Go (China)
One of the oldest board games in the world, Go originated in ancient China over 4,000 years ago. Despite its simple black-and-white aesthetic, Go is deeply strategic and complex, often compared to chess but with a more philosophical tone.
Why You Should Try It:
- Teaches patience, balance, and spatial reasoning.
- Reflects deep Confucian and Taoist philosophy.
- Still played by millions globally, especially in China, Japan, and Korea.
Online platforms like OGS (Online Go Server) or apps like “SmartGo” let you play against others or AI.
2. Pachisi (India)
You might know its Western cousin, Ludo, but the original game is Pachisi—an ancient Indian board game played on a cross-shaped board using cowrie shells for dice. It was once called the “game of kings.”
Why You Should Try It:
- Introduces you to ancient Indian royalty’s pastime.
- Offers luck and strategy in equal measure.
- Can be played with family for a cultural twist on a classic.
Check out traditional versions on mobile stores or find handcrafted wooden boards online.
3. Mancala (Africa)
Mancala isn’t just one game—it’s a family of games originating from Africa, played using small stones and a wooden board with rows of holes. It’s known by many names: Oware, Bao, and Congkak, depending on the region.
Why You Should Try It:
- Helps develop strategic planning.
- Steeped in African storytelling traditions.
- Simple to learn, challenging to master.
You can find versions for free on app stores or buy physical boards carved by African artisans.
4. Hnefatafl (Scandinavia)
Known as “The King’s Table,” Hnefatafl is a Viking-era strategy game dating back over 1,600 years. The game features an asymmetrical battle where one side protects the king while the other attacks.
Why You Should Try It:
- Unique gameplay unlike traditional war games.
- Offers insight into Viking hierarchy and warfare.
- A brilliant blend of history and strategy.
Online versions and physical boards are available for those wanting to explore Norse culture through play.
5. Takraw (Thailand & Southeast Asia)
Not every cultural game is digital or on a board—Sepak Takraw is a traditional Southeast Asian sport combining volleyball, football, and acrobatics. Players kick a rattan ball over a net using only feet, head, chest, and knees.
Why You Should Try It:
- Fast-paced and high-energy.
- Culturally embedded in Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
- Gaining popularity globally as a competitive sport.
Watch Takraw tournaments online, or if you’re feeling brave, try it in your local community sports club!
6. Senet (Ancient Egypt)
Senet is believed to be the world’s oldest known board game, played in ancient Egypt over 5,000 years ago. Tomb paintings show Pharaohs and nobles engaging in this mystical race game.
Why You Should Try It:
- Connects you to ancient Egyptian spirituality.
- Gameplay simulates the journey of the soul through the afterlife.
- A fascinating piece of living archaeology.
You can now play digital versions or own replicas of actual Senet boards.
7. Shogi (Japan)
Also known as Japanese chess, Shogi takes classic strategy and adds uniquely Japanese mechanics, such as dropping captured pieces back on the board as your own.
Why You Should Try It:
- Expands your chess knowledge into new territory.
- Encourages aggressive, tactical gameplay.
- Reflects Japanese emphasis on adaptability and honour.
There are fantastic Shogi apps and even anime series like “March Comes in Like a Lion” that make learning the game fun.
8. Toguz Korgool (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan)
This lesser-known but culturally rich game is part of the mancala family, played throughout Central Asia. “Toguz Korgool” means “Nine Balls” in Kyrgyz, and it’s often played in national tournaments.
Why You Should Try It:
- Teaches arithmetic thinking and memory.
- Central to Kyrgyz cultural identity.
- Fun and fast-paced once mastered.
You can find online tutorials and app-based versions for global audiences.
9. Patolli (Aztecs, Mesoamerica)
Patolli was a game of chance and strategy played by the Aztecs, often involving gambling and rituals. Players raced to complete a cross-shaped board using beans as dice.
Why You Should Try It:
- Offers a glimpse into Mesoamerican belief systems.
- Combines probability, luck, and spiritual overtones.
- Rare, but rewarding for culturally curious gamers.
Modern reconstructions let you play Patolli online or through educational kits.
10. Kabaddi (India & Bangladesh)
Another game that’s more physical than digital, Kabaddi is a traditional team sport where players tag opponents while holding their breath and chanting “kabaddi, kabaddi.” It’s intense, tactical, and gaining international attention.
Why You Should Try It:
- It’s now a professional sport in leagues across India.
- Deeply connected to South Asian community values.
- A unique blend of athleticism and mind games.
Stream matches from the Pro Kabaddi League or join local South Asian sports groups.
11. Mahjong (China)
Mahjong is a tile-based game requiring skill, memory, and strategy. It’s traditionally played with four players and involves creating specific sets with tiles that have Chinese symbols.
Why You Should Try It:
- An iconic part of Chinese culture.
- Encourages pattern recognition and critical thinking.
- Modern video game versions are abundant.
Apps like Mahjong Soul bring the traditional game into a fun, stylised anime universe.
12. Chaturanga (India)
Considered the grandfather of chess, Chaturanga was played in India over a thousand years ago. The game shares similarities with modern chess but also incorporates dice in some variations.
Why You Should Try It:
- Trace chess back to its cultural roots.
- Learn how strategy games evolved.
- Experience Indian military theory through gameplay.
While no longer widely played, simulations of Chaturanga are available in specialty board game circles.
13. Lotería (Mexico)
Think of it as Mexican Bingo—only with colourful cards filled with art, riddles, and traditional themes. It’s a family favourite during holidays and gatherings.
Why You Should Try It:
- Offers language learning through fun.
- Rich with Mexican iconography and symbolism.
- Great for kids and adults alike.
You can play Lotería online or order decks featuring classic or modern artwork.
14. Ritual and Randomness in Cultural Games
Across continents, traditional games blend ritual with gameplay. Some are tied to seasonal festivals, religious beliefs, or community storytelling. For instance, games like:
- Diabolo in China,
- Konane in Hawaii, or
- Tinikling in the Philippines
…are physical games or skill-based performances that double as cultural expressions.
While digital games have taken over globally, there’s a growing interest in turning these traditional practices into mobile apps and indie game concepts.
15. Digital Games Inspired by Culture
We’re now seeing modern video games influenced by traditional narratives:
- Never Alone (Kisima Ingitchuna) – Based on Iñupiaq culture from Alaska.
- Mulaka – A Mexican game built around Tarahumara mythology.
- Raji: An Ancient Epic – A stunning action-adventure based in Hindu mythology.
- Okami – A classic PlayStation game inspired by Japanese folklore and Shinto deities.
These aren’t just games—they’re digital time machines wrapped in pixels.
Midpoint Spotlight: Games of Luck Meet Cultural Identity
While many cultural games lean toward strategy, storytelling, or athleticism, games of chance also play a significant role in many societies—especially in leisure culture.
In the middle of this journey, we must acknowledge a different but culturally evolving category: online casino games. These games reflect modern cultural twists on luck-based entertainment. And in this growing domain, platforms like stellarspins online baccarat australia represent a digital meeting point between traditional card gaming and today’s online convenience. Baccarat itself has deep roots in European and Asian gambling halls, now reimagined for Aussie players seeking thrill, elegance, and strategy online.
As with many cultural exports, digital transformation makes ancient formats more accessible to modern players—regardless of their origin.
16. The Cultural Benefits of Playing Global Games
Learning through play isn’t just for kids. When you engage with games from different cultures, you:
- Build empathy and understanding.
- Train your brain with unfamiliar rules.
- See the world through different perspectives.
- Gain appreciation for diverse value systems.
From Africa’s communal logic to Asia’s honour-based tactics and Europe’s narrative complexity, games help you walk a mile in someone else’s shoes—without leaving your chair.
17. How to Discover and Learn Cultural Games
Ready to explore? Here’s how:
- YouTube & Twitch: Watch global players in action.
- Steam & Mobile Stores: Search keywords like “cultural,” “mythology,” or specific countries.
- Board Game Cafés: Many have international selections.
- Cultural festivals: Attend and ask locals about traditional games.
- Language learning apps: Some include game-based learning rooted in culture.
The key is curiosity.
18. Challenges of Cultural Translation
While playing global games is enriching, be mindful:
- Translation errors can lead to misinterpretation.
- Cultural symbols may carry meanings you’re unfamiliar with.
- Some rituals or religious aspects may not translate well to gamified formats.
Approach with respect, research, and a willingness to learn.
Final Thoughts: Play as a Bridge
Games are one of humanity’s oldest storytelling methods. Whether played on sand, stone, screens, or cards, they offer joy, competition, identity, and connection.
In an era where distance disappears digitally, embracing games from different cultures helps us become global citizens—not just gamers. It’s time to go beyond your comfort zone, embrace variety, and explore the world… one game at a time.