This Hnefatafl set is reminiscent of the famous Isle of Lewis chess men and the "board" is printed on woven textile, giving a nice medieval feel to the set. Most popular during the Dark Ages in Northern Europe, Hnefatafl ranks as one of history's greatest board games. The attacking force has the advantage at the start of each game, most likely mimicking the success of these Viking raids. The king is another cultural indication of the Viking chiefs' presence in battle. Starting the game in a cross formation in the center of the board, the defending team comprises twelve soldiers and a king. Their objective is for the king to escape by reaching any of the four corner squares.