The Çivi Oyunu, traditionally known as Saplatmaç in some regions of Türkiye, is a traditional outdoor game played with nails and a small hammer or stone on soft ground. The game was especially popular among children and teenagers in villages and neighbourhoods throughout Türkiye.
The main aim of the game is to drive a nail into the ground in turns while advancing within a marked area or limiting the opponent’s space. Players try to stick the Çivi (in English is “Nail) upright into the soil with accurate throws or strikes. Successful attempts provide advantages during the game. In some local versions, players create and protect their own territory while trying to capture the areas of their opponents.
Saplatmaç requires concentration, hand skills, balance, and precision. Players must carefully aim and control their movements, helping improve coordination and motor skills.
In the past, the Çivi Oyunu was commonly played in empty lots, village squares, and around schoolyards as part of Türkiye’s traditional street game culture. Today, it continues to be preserved and introduced through traditional games festivals and cultural activities.
