Subbuteo

About this board game

Subbuteo is a classic finger-flicking football-simulation action game for two players, with a play time of about 20 minutes.

Played on a large cloth playing field called a pitch, the game uses teams of miniature football players mounted on smooth, round bases. Players flick the bases to send the footballers sliding across the pitch, allowing them to hit the ball and recreate the movement of a soccer match.

Subbuteo’s rules simulate many familiar details of football, including possession, passing, throw-ins, goal kicks, and corner kicks. Fouling is also covered in depth, giving the game a notably detailed treatment of the sport.

• Finger-flicking action with sliding miniature players
• A cloth playing field and football
• Rules for possession, passing, throw-ins, goal kicks, and corner kicks
• A substantial section devoted to fouling

First released in 1947, Subbuteo became far more popular in European countries than in the United States. Collectors can find teams representing dozens of clubs and countries around the world, along with stadium enhancements such as stands filled with cheering fans, sideline referees, and stadium lights.

With its combination of physical dexterity, miniature footballers, and detailed match rules, Subbuteo offers a distinctive tabletop interpretation of soccer. Its expanding range of teams and accessories also makes the game appealing to collectors who want to build out the surrounding stadium experience.