Ludo Rules Explained! Learn how to move your tokens, capture opponents, use safe zones, and reach the home triangle to win. This guide covers official Ludo rules, gameplay mechanics, and variations so you can play like a pro—whether on a board or online!
What is Ludo?
Ludo is a classic board game derived from Pachisi, where players move tokens based on dice rolls. The goal is to move all four tokens from the starting area to the home triangle (center) before opponents.
Differences Between Ludo and Pachisi
- Board Design: Pachisi is played on a cloth cross-shaped board, while Ludo uses a square board.
- Players: Pachisi is typically played in pairs (2v2), whereas Ludo supports 2-4 individual players.
- Dice Used: Pachisi uses cowrie shells, while Ludo uses a six-sided die.
- Complexity: Pachisi has intricate strategies, while Ludo offers a simplified, faster-paced experience.
Ludo Board Setup and Token Movement
Movement
- The Ludo board features a cross pattern with four colored zones (red, blue, green, yellow).
- Players start with four tokens in their respective starting areas.
- Tokens move clockwise along the outer track before entering the home column.
- To enter the board, a player must roll a six.
- Tokens must land exactly in the home triangle to win.
Board Layout
- Landing on an opponent’s token sends it back to the starting area.
- Safe zones (stars) prevent token capture.
- Road Blocking: Some versions allow players to block opponents by placing two tokens on the same square, while others (especially online versions) don’t apply this rule.
Ludo Rules
Setup
- Players: 2-4 players, each with four tokens.
- Tokens: Must start in their designated areas.
Gameplay
- Rolling a Six to Start
- Each player must roll a six to move a token onto the board.
- If a player rolls a six, they can choose to introduce a new token or move an existing token six spaces forward.
- Rolling a six grants an extra turn, but rolling three consecutive sixes may result in a penalty (depending on the game version).
2. Moving Tokens
- Players take turns rolling the die and move their tokens clockwise based on the number rolled.
- If a player has multiple tokens on the board, they can choose which token to move.
3. Capturing Opponent’s Tokens
- If a player’s token lands on a space occupied by an opponent’s token, the opponent’s token is sent back to its starting area.
- Tokens in safe zones (stars) are protected and cannot be captured.
- Some versions allow road blocking, where two tokens of the same color prevent others from passing.
4. Entering the Home Column & Winning the Game
- Once a token completes the full board circuit, it must enter the home column (same color path leading to the center).
- Tokens must reach the home triangle using an exact dice roll.
- The first player to get all four tokens into the home triangle wins.
How to Win Ludo: Key Rules
- Objective: Move all four tokens into the home triangle.
- Exact Dice Roll Required: Tokens must land exactly on the final home space.
- Capturing Opponents: Landing on an opponent’s token sends it back to the start.
- Safe Zones: Tokens in marked safe spots cannot be captured.
- Road Blocking: Some versions allow forming barriers with two tokens; others don’t.
- Rolling a Six: Grants extra moves, but three consecutive sixes may result in a penalty (turn skipped in online versions).
- Declaring a Winner: The first player to home wins; online versions may rank players based on time or points.
Best Online Ludo Sites
- Vegas11 – offers a premium gaming experience with fair competition, secure transactions, and exciting rewards, featuring real-time, lag-free multiplayer matches and excellent customer support. While it excels in quality, it primarily caters to a niche audience, potentially limiting its broader appeal.
2. Ludo King – Offers classic and offline modes but has concerns about bot interference.
3. MPL (Mobile Premier League) – Provides cash-based Ludo tournaments but has reported withdrawal delays.
4. Zupee – Allows real-money matches with quick withdrawals, yet some users report fairness issues.
🔥 Join Vegas11 today for the best online Ludo experience
