Fighting Serpents

Kolowis Awithlaknannai — meaning 'Fighting Serpents' in the Zuni language — is a traditional strategy game of the Zuni people, an Indigenous community with roots in what is now western New Mexico. The game was documented by ethnologist Stewart Culin in his landmark 1907 study 'Games of the North American Indians,' one of the most comprehensive records of Indigenous games ever compiled.

The starting arrangement of pieces — two mirrored formations facing each other across the board — resembles two serpents coiled and ready to strike, giving the game its evocative name. Players take turns blocking and capturing opponent pieces across a board of connected triangles, in a tactical battle of wits that Zuni elders have enjoyed for generations.

Kolowis Awithlaknannai is more than a game — it is a living piece of cultural history. A gift that introduces the rich strategic traditions of Indigenous America into a modern home, and starts conversations that last long after the celebration ends.

This game is also available personalized for your special occasion. We laser-engrave the board with your name, message, or event details — making it a unique keepsake for weddings, cultural celebrations, and corporate gifting. Bulk orders of 50 or more units available with a 5-day production turnaround. Contact us for wedding and event pricing.

Our premium Fighting Serpents game set comes with:

• Playing board crafted in wood (8”x8”) 
• Playing pieces for player 1 - 6 Nos 
• Playing pieces for player 2 - 6 Nos 
• Playing instructions with fun trivia about the game 
• Our signature game storage box 

Disclaimer: Each game set contains unique natural materials. Your set may vary somewhat from product images. This reflects the traditional style with individual variation.

⚠ WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD- Small Parts - Not for Children under 3 years