Ugly Duck was invented in 2001 by Dan Troyka. The name refers to the HC Andersen story of the ugly duckling turning into a beautiful swan, which happens in the game as units reaching the opponent base are promoted.

The very ugly ducklingPhoto by JD Hancock

The ridiculously simple rules hide a rather elegant game of positioning (and the occasional capture), that never slows down since all units must move forward.

External links:

• World of Abstract Games entry
• Zillions of Games entry
• Board Game Geek entry