Avesta! is an abstract game themed loosely on the Zend Avesta - the sacred texts of Zoroaster (also called Zarathustra). It is chess-like in the powers and types of moves available, but there are a few spaces on the board that are limited to certain pieces, some pieces are used for blocking only, and some pieces are promoted when others are captured, which can tip the balance, making a capture or sacrifice critical to the outcome. There are two winning conditions: either the capture of the opponent’s offensive pieces, or the defilement (occupation) of your opponent’s temple for a full turn.