Trees versus Axemen (2018), an original board game by Cally Trench, is a game of skill, not chance, in which your aim is to occupy as much territory as possible, killing Trees if you control the Axemen or the Axemen if you control the Trees. Every game has a different starting point, determined by positioning the first eight Trees and eight Axemen by lot. There are two sets of Trees and two sets of Axemen, so the players need to collaborate with another player and discuss their moves. The Trees and Axemen start on a strictly equal basis, with no advantage to either side. Most players seem to prefer to control the Trees, a recognition of the importance of trees in our lives, but I have found that this does not stop the players controlling the Axemen from playing to win.

Cally Trench: I believe that board games allow us to explore issues - such as deforestation - that are of contemporary importance, in a way that engages us. The opposition and competition inherent in the game itself may have the effect of sidestepping the acrimony of debate. And because players may be compelled to take on a role that they fundamentally diasgree with or disapprove of, they may acquire some understanding of other people's positions.

Trees versus Axemen was first played in Board? Gaming is the Answer at Thought Foundation, Birtley on 10th February 2018.