Kubb is the yard game that actually keeps people outside

Every summer I try to get people off the couch and into the yard, and Kubb is the one that actually works.

The pitch: you throw wooden batons to knock over your opponent's blocks, then you go for the king in the middle. That is basically it. People get it in one round, and by round three they are calling their shots and trash talking like it is the playoffs.

What I love is the pace. It is slow enough to hold a conversation (and a beverage), and tense enough that nobody wanders off. It plays great two on two, scales fine for a backyard crowd, and a good set lasts for years.

The only catch: a flat-ish patch of grass helps a lot, and a cheap set with light blocks feels bad in the hand. Get a heavier hardwood set and it turns into a different game.

Speaking of which, I make these. If you want one built to last, check the shop.