Affentennis

About this board game

Affentennis is a two-player dexterity game that simulates tennis on a hex-grid court, with an approximate play time of 60 minutes. Released in 2006, it combines physical skill with a surprisingly strategic design.

Players use a rubber-band mechanism to hit the ball across the court. The monkey pieces mark each player’s location; while cubes could have served the same purpose, these distinctive figures add considerably more character. The monkeys originated in south German television commercials.

Movement is limited when hitting or returning a shot, creating an important choice during play. A player may borrow movement from their next turn, but doing so puts them under pressure and reduces their ability to shoot as effectively.

Affentennis also includes several tactical options that go beyond the game’s playful name. Its wooden block idea enables serve-and-volley play, while a ramp allows a player to lob over a volley. Players can also attempt to smash a volley, adding another way to challenge an opponent.

• Dexterity play using a rubber-band shooting mechanism
• A tennis court overlaid with a hex grid
• Limited movement and the option to borrow from the next move
• Serve-and-volley play using a wooden block
• Lobs using a ramp and the ability to smash a volley

With its blend of precise shots, movement management, and tactical choices, Affentennis offers more depth than its humorous theme might suggest. It is designed specifically for two players and turns a tennis court into a compact contest of control, pressure, and dexterity.