Igo is a traditional board game that originated in China over 2,500 years ago. It is played on a grid of intersecting lines, typically 19x19, where two players take turns placing black and white stones. The objective is to control more territory on the board than the opponent by surrounding their stones. The game is known for its deep strategy and simple rules, making it accessible to beginners while offering complexity for advanced players. Igo is popular in East Asia, particularly in Japan, Korea, and China, and has a rich cultural significance, often associated with intellectual and philosophical pursuits.