Socio-cultural significance of traditional games of the Kyrgyz, Kazakhs, and Mongols

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The study examined the socio-cultural functions of traditional Kyrgyz games and their role in sustaining collective identity within nomadic communities. The methodology combined comparative historical analysis, classification, and comparative examination of ethnographic, historical, visual, and contemporary documentary sources. Five analytical categories were identified: equestrian sports, wrestling and martial arts, children’s active games, intellectual games, and ceremonial and festival events. Equestrian contests such as kök-börü, kyz kuumai, at chabysh, and oodarysh (er enish), together with regional forms of kürösh, developed military, physical, and social skills, whereas children’s and intellectual games supported socialisation, counting, coordination, and strategic thinking. Comparative analysis revealed both common steppe traditions among the Kyrgyz, Kazakhs, and Mongols and locally specific forms such as ordo. Contemporary ethnosport initiatives, including the World Nomad Games, represent a new stage in the long-term adaptation, institutionalisation, and international promotion of traditional games rather than their recent revival. UNESCO recognition of kök-börü, Kazakh traditional Assyk games, Mongolian Naadam, and toguz korgool has strengthened safeguarding and international visibility. The findings demonstrate the continuing educational, communicative, ritual, sporting, and identity-forming significance of traditional games and support their inclusion in educational and cultural programmes. Their preservation can also strengthen intergenerational communication, cultural continuity, and sustainable cultural tourism.