'Tyr' hnefatafl

 'Tyr' hnefatafl is a modern hnefatafl variant, inspired by some ambiguities in the 11th century manuscript portraying Alea Evangelii. Both sides have a extra piece type called a 'commander', and in addition, a piece type called 'vanguard', can switch sides. All this makes for faster and more exciting game, especially on larger boards. 

Clearly, I wanted to add a 'tyr' hnefatafl set to my collection, and opted for the 17 x 17 version, simply because that size isn't yet part of any set in the collection. Plywood and self-adhesive 'tiled' plastic were to be the main ingredients of the board, whereas the pieces are those from two identical cheap chess sets.

Step one was to cut the self-adhesive plastic to size (17 x 17 'tiles') and add finishing strips to the edges.

Then, remove the excess plywood, and sand down the edges.

Turn the board around to add finishing strips to the underside as well.

Final step in creating the board is to add multiple layers of mahogany wood stain.

Board done! So all remains doing now is to put the pieces on the board in their starting position. Obviously, a white king is used for the white king, and pawns for the soldiers on both sides.

Knights are used for white 'commanders' ...

... whereas rooks are used for black 'commanders'. Finally, bishops are used for 'vanguards'.

I give you a set for 'tyr' hnefatafl!