Buffalo Chess

About this board game

Buffalo Chess, also known as Bison, is a two-player board game released in 1975 and designed for play sessions of about 30 minutes. One player represents Indians defending their village, while the other commands a herd of rampaging buffalo.

The game gives each side a distinct role and style of play. The Indian player moves the Indian chief and his dogs, working to keep the village from being overrun. The opposing player takes charge of the buffalo herd, guiding its wooden pieces across the game.

Because the pieces move differently, Buffalo Chess creates an asymmetric contest in which the two players approach the same conflict from very different perspectives. One side focuses on defending the village with the chief and dogs; the other directs the advancing herd.

• Players: 2
• Play time: approximately 30 minutes
• Release year: 1975
• Theme: Indians defending a village against buffalo
• Pieces: wooden game pieces representing the chief, dogs, and buffalo

With its clear two-sided premise and contrasting movement styles, Buffalo Chess offers a focused head-to-head experience. The opposing responsibilities make every game a direct encounter between village defense and the pressure of a charging herd.