Block Game

Group Size: 10-40 people
Difficulty: Medium
Materials: Beigoma, strings, play areas, block point cards
Duration: 30-60 minutes

Game Description:¶

The block game allows many players to participate at their own pace. Each player uses a card divided into several blocks, typically A, B, and C. During the game time, players complete short one-on-one matches and record the results on their cards.

This format is useful when participants can join during the event, when multiple play areas are available, or when the game leader wants everyone to get many attempts rather than being eliminated early.

Prepare point cards with multiple blocks and enough spaces for 10-30 matches per player. Set up multiple Beigoma play areas if possible. With about 20 players, three play areas and one hour is a workable setup.

Each participant receives a card and writes their name on it. Two players place their cards near a play area and play a one-on-one round. The result is recorded on the card. Players then move to a different row or play area and repeat the process until time runs out.

At the end, all cards are handed over to the game leader. The game leader tallies the points for each block and announces the results.

Scoring:¶

Tokyo Beigoma uses symbols on the card. A workable point system is:

• Win by Riki or Hajiki: 2 points
• Draw or Pakkan: 1 point
• Loss: 0 points
• Win against a designated Beigoma master: 3 points

Adjust the point values if your local rules use a different system.

Variations:¶

Use one block for beginner matches, one for mixed matches, and one for free challenge matches.

If players join later, give them a shorter minimum goal instead of requiring a full card.

Notes:¶

This format is more administrative than the speed format. It requires prepared cards and someone who can explain how to record results.

Source:¶

Based on the Block Game format from Tokyo Beigoma.