Science Forums 2

[Turtle]

My name is spelled in English with 4 different letters.
Usually I am played with, but I can serve in battle.
I take many forms throughout the world.
I have an ancient history with people, from the common to the elite.
What am I?

Hint 1) It is not a rock, although it is possible to use a rock to make it.
Hint 2) It is not rope,but rope it may use.
Hint 3) It is not fire,but fire it may bear.
Hint 4) It may be small as a mouse or larger than a house.
Hint 5) It is not a hole, but a whole of its parts
Hint 6) It is not a game, but you may play games with it.
Hint 7) It is not a plan, though having a plan is necessary to make it.
Hint 8) It is not nine or any number, but some times many of it go together as one.