Learn 'The Way'
By playing Flank.
1. Objective
Cover and move. Flank your opponents. Be the last player with any blocks remaining.
2. Components (to play at home)
Board
- Standard 8×8 chessboard
- Any grid or grid game board can be used (tiles, Go, Stratego, etc.)
Blocks
- Each Block is a cube
- 4 blocks per color, 4 colors available
- Block faces:
- One face has a dot (the "nose"), alternatively use an arrow on top.
- Three faces have a line (the "body")
- Top face is color-coded by teams (Blue, Orange, Black, Green)
Players
- 2–4 players
- 1-8 blocks per player (4 blocks recommended)
3. Setup
Board Setup
- Place the board
- Place your blocks anywhere in your half or quarter
Block Orientation
When placing blocks initially, choose an orientation for each block (which direction the nose/dot faces).
4. Gameplay
Turn Order
Best joke or youngest chooses who goes first and chooses clockwise/counterclockwise.
Actions per Turn
- Up to 3 total moves per turn across any blocks
- You may choose not to move
- Distribute moves as desired (e.g., all 3 moves for one block, or 1 move each for three blocks)
5. Movement Rules
Pivot
- 90-degree turn within the same square
- Rotate block so nose (dot/arrow) faces new direction
- One pivot = one move
Step
- Move to an adjacent square (orthogonally, not diagonally)
- Can move forward, backward, or laterally regardless of nose orientation
- One step = one move
6. Attacking
Conditions to Attack
- Nose must align to strike opponent's body
- Must move into the opponent's square
- Nose-on-nose or body-on-body aren't allowed
Executing an Attack
- Successfully attacking removes opponent's block
- You may continue moving/attacking if you have remaining moves
7. Ending the Game
Standard Victory
Last player with remaining blocks wins
Custom Victory Conditions
- Capture the Flag (reach designated square)
- Capture the Captain (mark a block)
8. Optional Variations
- Solo: 2-4 players, no teams, 1-4 blocks each
- Team Play: 2v2, 3v1, or 2v1
- Custom Boards: Design maps with obstacles or specific terrain
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Can a block move diagonally?
No. Steps are only orthogonal (forward, backward, left, right).
Can I pivot twice?
Yes, as long as you have moves remaining.
Does an attack require stepping?
Yes, you must move into the opponent's square for a valid attack.
Are there any limits to how many attacks can be made in one turn?
You may attack as long as you have moves left in your turn.