The intrigue and simplicity of a folded piece of paper have given rise to a vast array of games that have entertained people worldwide for generations. You might know them as origami games, but when we're referring to games played by manipulating a single sheet of paper, what exactly are they called?
Interestingly, these games don't have a universally accepted title, as they span across numerous cultures and have evolved over time. However, they can be broadly categorized into two types: those that involve simple folding techniques and those that delve into the art of origami.
Games Involving Simple Paper Folding
These games require minimal folds and are usually quite interactive. They are often played in social settings or as party games.
Paper Football
One of the most famous games in this category is Paper Football. To play, you merely need to fold a piece of paper into a triangular shape, simulating the appearance of an American football. The game involves the 'kicker' placing the paper football on the ground and attempting to kick it through 'upright goalposts' made from folded pieces of paper or improvised from nearby objects.
Variations of this game, when played with different rules, can also be referred to as 'Paper Soccer', 'Paper Cup Game', or 'Table Football'. These games involve flicking or shooting the folded paper towards a goal rather than kicking it.
Forty-Nine
Originating in Japan, Forty-Nine is a more complex game of strategy. It is named after the original total number of stones (instead of paper) used in the game. The rules involve each player attempting to fold their piece of paper into a smaller and smaller size while adhering to specific folding instructions and, eventually, trying to win all the other pieces of paper in the process.
Although the actual name of the game is quite specific, it is sometimes accompanied by its Japanese name, 'Shichinin kare ni maki' (seven people cutting), referring to the traditional seven players involved and the cut-and-paste strategy used.
Origami Games
Origami games, while still based on folding paper, require more intricate folds and results in the creation of specific shapes and figures. These games can be both entertaining and educational, as they often involve creating complex designs.
Roll 'Em
One such game is Roll 'Em. In this game, players create origami flowers and потом compete by sending their flowers "flying". The player whose flower has the farthest unassisted distance is the winner. This game encourages creativity and improves manual dexterity, as players experiment with different types and shapes of flowers.
Variations of the game can use different origami creations, such as boats, or involve different rules for the flying challenge. They can be found under various names, including 'Flying Origami', 'Looking for Mr. Grey', or even ' Flower-Balloon Race'.
Origami Chess
An exception to traditional origami games is Origami Chess. This game can be set up just like a regular chessboard, but instead of using carved pieces, players use carefully folded origami shapes to represent the different pieces. This twist makes it not only a fun game but also a piece of art.
While the rules of the game remain the same as traditional chess, the challenges of operating the origami pieces can add an extra layer of complexity, especially for novices. Unlike other origami games, Origami Chess depends more on the unique properties of the origami pieces than on individual folding skills.
In the end, whether you're flicking a simple paper football or meticulously folding origami chess pieces, paper games are a testament to human ingenuity and creativity. They remind us that even the most basic materials can provide hours of entertainment and learning. So, the next time you find yourself with a piece of paper and a bit of time on your hands, consider trying out one of these games. You might just discover a new favorite pastime!