Go originated in China over 2,500 years ago and is thought to be the oldest board game still played today. Though the game originated in China, it is also largely played in Japan and Korea. 

Go involves two players facing off to obtain the most territory on the board. Board sizes range from a size 5×5 grid to the standard 19×19 grid. The game is played with black and white stones, with black taking the first turn. The player using black stones typically has an advantage of between five and seven points by the end of the game. 

Players take turns placing stones on empty intersections on the board to create liberties. Once a stone is placed, it can not be moved. However, captured stones are taken off the board. A stone or group of stones is captured when the opponent’s stones surround it at all perpendicular points. 

The game concludes when either player runs out of moves. The winner is determined by counting the players’ surrounded territory and captured stones. Additionally, points are added to the player using white stones as compensation for taking the second turn (komi). 

Go Club meets every Thursday in the library from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. For more information, students can contact McLaskey at jomcl25@icstudents.org or Kapp at kapp.will@iowacityschools.org.