Traditional Assyk games are an ancient tradition in Kazakhstan. They are played with 'Assyks', made from the talus bone of sheep, and a 'Saka' dyed in bright colors.
Played in the summer and winter two boys practice throwing sheep bones at a target from a distance. Each player uses his or her Assyks to knock out the other players with the focus on the position of the bone. And a number of the “asyks” had been drilled with holes. As well to its social functions, people use the game to resolve disputes. Some rural areas in Kazakhstan still play Asyk. This famous Kazakh traditional game is a long-standing tradition.
The Asyk game is an outdoor activity, which develops children's analytical thinking and physical state, fostering friendships and social inclusion. The element concerns the majority including members of the Federation ‘Assyk Atu’ Game, and the broader community of practitioners, primarily children between the ages of four and eighteen. In addition, it is a good model for fostering a sense of unity among people regardless of age, ethnic background, or religious affiliation.
From ancient times until today, the Kazakh people have played “asyk” (playing with lamb bone). This game still retains its value among the Kazakhs, as it is also commonly played by the Turkic-Mongolians in East Kazakhstan. It is widely practiced at festivals and celebrations, and the community plays a key role in safeguarding the tradition and making it known to other ethnic groups in Kazakhstan.
Today Asyk has become a national symbol of childhood. By observation as well as by radio and television, older boys attempt to transmit it to younger ones in order to inspire children to play Assyk and familiarize people with the culture itself. Hopefully, the young generation will keep safeguarding this game in the future.