The Armenian System of Folk Games and Ethnographic Features

Armenian traditional games constitute a complex and unique system of ethnic culture, folklore, and ethno-pedagogy. Historically, they were never merely a means of leisure or entertainment; they functioned as fundamental social institutions for community regulation, socialization, physical conditioning, and military preparedness of the youth. Armenian gaming culture was structurally intertwined with cosmological worldviews, the ritual calendar, cycles of nature, and specific national holidays such as Bun Barekendan (Carnival), Holy Zatik (Easter), and Vardavar. Based on structural and functional characteristics, traditional games are classified into distinct categories, each performing a designated socio-cultural role. The primary objective of martial-athletic games was to cultivate physical endurance, strength, strategic logic, and weapons proficiency among men and male youth. A prominent example is Kokh (traditional Armenian wrestling), which followed strict rules, was accompanied by traditional music (zurna-dhol), and served as a mandatory ritual component of weddings and community festivals. Other widespread games included Lakhtakhagh (Chghlakhti), utilizing leather belts, and various Equestrian Games (Chirit, Bridal Horse Racing). Team and target yard games developed spatial perception, tactical reflexes, and collective coordination. Core archetypes include Yot Qar (Seven Stones), involving flat stones and a ball, Berd (Fortress), an exclusively male game symbolizing cita