Yellow Mountain Imports Beechwood Veneer 0.4-Inch Etched Beginner's Reversible 9x9/13x13 Go Game Set Board with Double Convex Melamine Stones - Classic Strategy Board Game (Baduk/Weiqi)

Just today I received this go set, and wasn't sure what to expect, but hopeful it was worth the cost. I'm very much a novice to the game, having only played online, and wanted to play face to face with friends. Upon opening my package, I was immediately impressed with the quality of the board. Its very solid, very flat, and aesthetically pleasing. The lines are etched into the board, and are perfectly uniform and visible. Again, being a newcomer to the game, i've never played with real stones, and these are just as impressive as the board. Through my multiple games with my daughter, I haven't noticed any damaged stones, they have a nice feel to them, and look great. One reviewer mentioned that the lids would not "stay on" the container for the stones, but the nice, traditional wooden bowls don't have a locking/secure lid either. They are inexpensive plastic containers that do their job. If you want more security, get a rubbermaid container, otherwise, don't throw them carelessly in a bag or your car and you wont have to hunt for your stones. The booklet, "The way to Go", is also very useful for a beginner, even if you know nothing about the game. Its there to get you started and playing, and isn't meant to be comprehensive. I am more than happy with what I have, it is money well spent as long as you intend on playing, and I don't see the set losing any value as long as you take care of it. I would recommend this set, and buy it again.

It feels great to hold the pieces (great weight, texture, feel) and the board has a 9x9 grid on the back for beginners. The boxes the pieces live in is a bit flimsy - the lid has come off a few times, spilling them on the floor. There are plenty of pieces with this set though, so it's not the end of the world if you lose some.

Als totaler Go Neuling bin ich mit dem Set sehr zufrieden. Die Steinschalen aus plastik sind natürlich etwas "billig", aber bei dem Preis vollkommen okay. Das Brett und die Steine selber sind hochwertig (gerade die Steine fühlen sich toll an). Wirklich sehr gut ist auch die Anleitung, die einen langsam aber gezielt an die Regeln (die letztendlich sehr einfach sind) und ein paar grundlegende Strategien heranführt.

The typical 19x19 board has a very large footprint, even if you're playing a smaller 9x9 (my usual) or 13x13, and can be a bit deceiving when you get to the boundary. This is a dandy board for either smaller layout. The pieces are well made, the containers tight, and the included rule book first-rate. A good board to teach friends how to play the game (as I did on vacation).

Nice quality board. I like being able to flip the board as I learn how to play Go. The amount of black and white Go pieces is great! I have a curious cat who steals small things...and grandchildren of the same mindset. :) The storage containers for the pieces are nice and sturdy. Overall, I really am enjoying this set.