If you love hosting friends or hanging out with family outdoors, you know how important it is to have the right yard games. But let's be honest: cornhole can get repetitive, Spikeball leaves out grandparents, and cheap lawn darts are a hazard.
You need a game that is easy to learn, fits everyone from toddlers to grandparents, and offers deep strategy for those who want a challenge.
Enter Kubb (pronounced "koob")—the ultimate Scandinavian lawn game that is taking over backyards, beaches, and parks. Here is why Kubb is consistently rated one of the best backyard games you can play.
What is Kubb?
Often described as "Viking chess" or a mix of bowling and horseshoes, Kubb is a team-based game of skill and strategy. Two teams face off across a rectangular field, taking turns throwing wooden batons to knock down their opponent's blocks (kubbs) before targeting the King in the center.
It takes two minutes to learn, but the tactical depth keeps players coming back for years.
Why Kubb is One of the Best Backyard Games
### 1. Inclusive for All Ages
Most active yard games require running, jumping, or quick reflexes, which can leave people out. Kubb is played at a relaxed pace. Batons are thrown underhand, meaning kids as young as six and grandparents can play side-by-side on equal footing.
### 2. Scalable for Any Crowd
Whether you have a quiet evening with 2 players or a backyard BBQ with 12 people, Kubb scales perfectly. You can split into teams of up to 6 players per side, keeping everyone engaged and laughing.
### 3. Play Anywhere, Anytime
Kubb doesn't require a perfectly manicured lawn. You can play on grass, sand at the beach, dirt at a campsite, or even in the snow during winter. Because the pieces are solid wood, they stand up on almost any flat surface.
### 4. Deep Strategy and Friendly Rivalry
Unlike simple tossing games where luck rules, Kubb has a built-in comeback mechanic. Knocked-down blocks are thrown onto the opponent's side and must be cleared first, meaning a losing team can mount an epic comeback at any moment. This creates suspense and memorable "hero" shots.
How to Get Started with Kubb
If you are ready to upgrade your backyard game collection, we recommend starting with a premium hardwood set. Cheap pine sets on Amazon crack and split in a single afternoon. Our Classic Kubb Set is made from solid, FSC-certified birch and backed by a lifetime warranty, ensuring it lasts for generations of family gatherings.
Ready to play? Grab a set, call some friends, and discover your new favorite outdoor tradition.