Fox And Geese - Free Online Utility Tool

Quick Answer

Fox and Geese is a free online utility for playing the classic asymmetric board game where one fox captures 13 geese by mandatory jumps, while geese trap the fox by hemming it in—no sign-up required.[3][1] Originating from Norse Viking traditions like Halatafl, it builds strategy skills with geese moving first on a cross-shaped board.[3][5] Play instantly to master fox escapes or geese blockades in 7-15 moves.[3]

Why You Need This

Traditional Fox and Geese solves the challenge of accessible digital play for this medieval Northern European hunt game, persistent through the 19th century and used in STEM education for spatial reasoning and problem-solving.[3][6] With 13 geese starting on the board's bottom rows and the fox in the center (or any empty spot in variations), geese move forward/diagonally/sideways only—no backwards—to trap the fox, while the fox jumps mandatory over adjacent geese to empty spots, capturing and removing them.[3][1][2] Fox wins by capturing enough geese (e.g., 8 in some versions) or reaching the opposite side; geese succeed by immobilizing it.[3][5][6] Families, educators, AI enthusiasts modeling state spaces, and casual gamers need this free tool for quick, unequal challenges—no downloads, just play.[3]

How It Works

Load the utility for the standard 33-point cross board with lines for moves; place 13-17 geese on starting positions, fox opposite.[3][5] Geese move first to adjacent empty points along lines (forward/diagonal/sideways); fox then moves any direction or jumps compulsorily if possible, with consecutive captures allowed.[1][2][3] Enforce rules like no geese backwards and huffing (return captured goose if fox skips jump).[3] Simulate full games to visualize win paths, like fox breaking through or geese forming blockades.[6]

Tips for Best Results

• Start standard: 13 geese, geese first, fox center—test 17-geese variations for balance.[3][5]
• Prioritize jumps: Fox must capture if available; geese advance patiently to avoid forks/pins.[1][5]
• Use backward reasoning: Visualize state trees from goals (fox escape or trap) for efficient AI or strategy.[2]
• Iterate plays: Simulate 7-15 moves, export trees, and adjust rules (e.g., no diagonals) for skill-building wins.[3][6]

Sources

• youtube.com
• scribd.com
• whatdowedoallday.com
• besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
• en.wikipedia.org