The Breton Palet game is gaining ground at the moment. It is a variant of pétanque, but it is more fun and easier to play. Pétanque is often criticized for various reasons.
Not only is the ball heavy and somewhat tiring, but players and spectators can be at risk of being hit. Such a possibility can lead to injuries or trauma. This is one of the reasons why palet games are appreciated. They are based on the same principles as pétanque, but with a simpler and more fun aspect.
If you want to have fun with family or friends, this precision game is perfect for you. To learn more about the rules of the palets game and how to play like a pro, read on.
When does the game of palet date back to?
This game is quite old, dating back to around the 15th century. The plates used then were flat stones or pebbles. At the time, there were no puck game boards yet. The game was played directly on the ground.
The game of palets appeared in France in the 16th century in the Rennes region. And it quickly became popular throughout Brittany. In fact, the first numbered palets come from this region around the 19th century.
At the beginning, a simple wooden board served as the playing field. Gradually, however, the shapes and dimensions of the game board were standardized. A square board measuring 70 cm by 70 cm was required. After the First World War, the first palets tournaments took place at the Halles des Lices in Rennes. Since then, the Breton palets game has been a symbol of major festivities.
The game has gradually conquered other French regions and even the world. Its reputation is now undisputed, with thousands of players and several annual tournaments.
What materials are needed to play?
This Breton puck game consists of throwing pucks onto a board. The goal is to get as close as possible to the master to score points.
First of all, you need a board to serve as the playing field. If the plate is made of lead, it measures 45 x 45 cm. If it is made of wood, the classic size of 70 x 70 cm applies. Players must each bring two or four pucks. A precision compass is useful to avoid disputes over the winning pucks. A puck lifter will also help you pick up the pucks without having to bend down and stand up constantly.
What are the rules of the palet game to follow?
The list of rules for the Breton palets game is not long. With a few tries, you will be able to master them.
The rules to start the game
The throwing line must be 5 m from the board. To determine which team will start, you must throw the small puck or the jack. Then, each team makes a throw. The team with the puck closest to the jack can start the game.
In this case, the master must be re-launched. If after three attempts, the team fails to place the puck on the board, the turn must be given to the other team.
Once the jack is in a good position, the teams take turns throwing the pucks. The team with the puck closest to the jack leads the game.
Note that a throw must contain a pair of pucks. The player must therefore throw two pucks at the same time.
Scoring rules
As in pétanque, the rule of proximity to the jack comes into play. Once all the pucks have been used, the points must be counted. A team scores a point when it has the puck closest to the jack. If several pucks are closer to the small puck than the opponent's pucks, each of them scores a point. The team with the most points continues the game immediately.
The palet game ends when a team scores 12 points. In case of a tie, another game must be played.
How to play puck games like a pro?
In principle, if you have already played pétanque, you should have no problem with this Breton puck game. However, here are some tips to play like a pro. In fact, everything is in the puck throwing technique. You must not do it randomly; you need to adopt very precise gestures.
Hold the puck well
Before you start throwing, you need to be well prepared. To do this, you must take the puck and hold it correctly with three fingers. The middle finger will support it, the thumb will hold it, and the index finger will wrap around it.
Adopt a stable position
When you are on the delivery line, adopt a stable position. It's not about staying still, but about taking a bit of momentum and bringing your leg forward. This way, you will be able to control your throw and your pucks well.
Cushion the puck throw
The last point, the most important, is the actual throw. You must ensure that it is well cushioned. Not only must the puck enter the board, but it must also land well. A good landing is one that is neither too flat nor too vertical. It should be somewhere in between, meaning the puck is slightly tilted. It can then reach its target while staying close to the jack.
Conclusion on the game of palets and its rules
In short, the Breton puck game is an easy game. If you learn the basic rules and keep in mind the techniques of the puck game, you will be able to play like a pro and even participate in tournaments.
In any case, it's an interesting idea for entertainment during parties and family gatherings. All you need is a wooden board and pucks, so start practicing now!