Unarmed tafl

[Hagbard]

As a beginners' first tafl, I wonder if there is a tafl to be found with all pieces unarmed and king wins on edge?

[Adam]

Might be interesting, but it may just confuse people. I've taught 11x11 hnefatafl to classes of six and seven year olds in five minutes, and they play the game with little further supervision. After two supervised games they are already figuring out strategies like the three man corner cover.

[Hagbard]

I've taught 11x11 hnefatafl to classes of six and seven year olds in five minutes

Then perhaps Welsh tafl is the simplest pedagogical variant, and simpler not needed.

[Adam]

There is also something to be said for the smaller boards. The games tend to be quicker which can be good.

[crust]

I have found our 9x9 sea-battle is a good place to start, though as you know it can be a real brain-teaser