Ludo is one of the most beloved board games in the world, known for its simple gameplay, nostalgic charm, and competitive edge. While the game may seem easy at first glance, understanding the basic rules is essential if you want to enjoy it fully and improve your chances of winning. Certain online apps also allow players to play and win ludo real cash. Whether you’re new to the game or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the basic Ludo rules every player should know before starting.
Let’s break it down so you can jump into your next match with confidence.
1. The Ludo Board and Setup
A standard Ludo board consists of four colored sections: red, green, yellow, and blue. Each section represents a player’s home and holds four tokens. The board is shaped like a cross, with a central square called the “home area.” The goal is to move all four of your tokens from your home section to this central area. Get your tokens to the home area from the starting point before your opponents do.
Each player selects a colour and is given four tokens matching that colour.
Tokens start in the respective colored base area and can only enter the main track when a 6 is rolled.
2. Objective of the Game
The objective of Ludo is simple: move all four of your tokens around the board and into the central home triangle before your opponents can do the same.
To do this, you must:
Enter your token on the board.
Complete a full loop around the track.
Enter the home column specific to your colour.
Reach the centre with all four tokens.
The game is won by the first player to successfully get all four tokens into the home.
3. How to Start Playing
Each player rolls a die. The game starts with the player who rolls the highest number, and turns follow a clockwise direction. To move a token from the base to the starting square, you need to roll a 6. After a token is on the board, you advance it based on the number rolled on each turn.
Rolling a 6 grants you an additional turn, in classic Ludo games, which can be taken right away.
4. Movement and Progression
Tokens travel clockwise around the board.
You can only move a token that is already on the board (i.e., out of the base).
Each roll of the dice decides the number of spaces a token can move forward.
To enter the final home path, you need an exact roll.
Only one token can occupy each square (except for safe zones). If an opponent lands on a square with your token, your token is sent back to the base.
5. Capturing Opponent’s Tokens
If you land on a square occupied by an opponent’s token, you “capture” it, sending it back to its base. The opponent will have to roll a 6 again to bring it back into play.
Capturing an opponent’s token plays a key role in the strategy of Ludo.
Safe zones (marked with a star) cannot be used to capture; tokens on these spots are protected.
6. Safe Zones and Starred Spaces
Ludo boards often feature specific squares marked with a star—these are safe zones. If your token is in a safe zone, it cannot be captured by another player.
Safe zones are usually located just after a token enters the board or at certain intervals.
Several tokens can share a safe zone without any conflict.
7. Winning the Game
To win in Ludo, you must get all four of your tokens into your colored home triangle. The first player to do so is declared the winner. The rest can continue playing to determine second and third place, or the game can end after the winner is declared.
Final Thoughts
Ludo may seem like a game of dice and pawn, but knowing the basic rules gives you an edge. Understanding when to bring tokens out, when to advance, and when to play it safe can turn the tide in your favour. Whether you’re playing for fun, bragging rights, or rewards on an online app, learning these Ludo basics will help you play smarter and enjoy the game even more.
So next time you roll the dice, remember: strategy, timing, and patience can make you the champion of the Ludo board.