What is Moara and how do you play it?
Moara is a traditional Romanian strategy board game with centuries of history. Learn the rules and discover why it remains a beloved classic.
A game with deep roots
Moara — also known internationally as Nine Men's Morris — is one of the oldest known board games. Variations have been found carved into ancient temples, medieval buildings, and village tables across Europe. In Romania, Moara holds a special place as a game passed down through generations.
It's a strategy game for two players that is simple to learn but surprisingly deep to master.
The board
The Moara board consists of three concentric squares connected by lines at the midpoints of each side. This creates 24 intersection points where pieces can be placed. Each player has 9 pieces (traditionally two different colors).
How to play
The game has three phases:
Phase 1: Placing pieces
Players take turns placing one piece at a time on any empty point on the board. The goal during this phase is to form a "mill" — three of your pieces in a straight line along one of the board's lines.
When you form a mill, you remove one of your opponent's pieces from the board (as long as it's not part of their own mill).
Phase 2: Moving pieces
Once all 18 pieces are placed, players take turns sliding one piece along a line to an adjacent empty point. The goal is still to form mills and remove opponent pieces.
Strategy becomes critical here — blocking your opponent while creating opportunities for yourself.
Phase 3: Flying
When a player is reduced to only 3 pieces, those pieces can "fly" — moving to any empty point on the board, not just adjacent ones. This gives the weaker player a fighting chance.
How to win
You win by reducing your opponent to 2 pieces (they can no longer form a mill) or by blocking all their pieces so they cannot move.
Why Moara is special
What makes Moara compelling is the balance between simplicity and depth:
- Easy rules — Anyone can learn in minutes
- Deep strategy — Experienced players develop complex opening and endgame strategies
- Quick games — Most games last 10-15 minutes
- No luck — Pure strategy, no dice or cards
- Cultural heritage — Playing connects you to a tradition hundreds of years old
Play Moara today
Moara brings the traditional game to your phone. Play against the computer or challenge a friend. The game preserves the classic rules while making it easy to play anywhere, anytime.
Moara is available on Google Play and the App Store. The traditional Romanian Nine Men's Morris board game on your phone.