How to Play Ludo – Rules, Setup & Gameplay Guide (2025)

Ludo is one of the most popular board games in India, enjoyed by people of all ages. It is simple to learn but has enough strategy to keep the game exciting. Whether you are playing with friends, family, or online opponents, understanding the rules and gameplay is the first step toward winning.

This game is based on an ancient Indian game called Pachisi. Over time, it evolved into the modern Ludo we know today. The best part? You only need a Ludo board, dice, and tokens to get started – or you can even play it online with just a smartphone.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Ludo:
How to set up the board
Step-by-step rules
How to move tokens and win
Tips for beginners

So, let’s get started and make sure you understand exactly how to play Ludo like a pro.

Check Out Our New Blog (Common Mistakes Make by New Ludo Player )

What You Need to Play Ludo

Before you start, here’s what you need:

A Ludo board with four colored starting areas (red, blue, yellow, green).
16 tokens, 4 in each color.
A six-sided dice (or digital dice in online Ludo).
2–4 players (in some online versions, up to 6 players can join).

Ludo Board Setup

Each player chooses a color – red, green, blue, or yellow.
Place all 4 tokens in the home area of the chosen color.
The player who rolls the highest number starts first.

The board has safe squares (usually marked with a star) – tokens placed here cannot be cut by opponents.

Rules of Ludo – Step by Step

1️ Starting the Game

You need to roll a 6 to bring a token out of the home area.
Rolling a 6 gives you an extra turn.

2️ Moving Tokens

Once a token is out, you move it according to the dice roll.
Tokens move clockwise around the board.

3️ Cutting Opponents’ Tokens

If your token lands on a square occupied by an opponent, their token is sent back to its home area.
You get another turn when you cut an opponent’s token.

4️ Safe Squares

Tokens on safe squares cannot be cut.
Use these spots to protect your tokens.

5 Entering the Home Column

After completing one round, your token enters the home column (center path of your color).
To reach home, you must roll the exact number needed.

How to Win in Ludo

The player who successfully brings all four tokens home first wins the game.
The game can continue until other players also finish.

Example Gameplay

Player rolls a 6 → brings out one token.
Rolls again → gets 3 → moves token 3 spaces forward.
Another 6 → brings out a second token.
Player positions tokens strategically to cut opponents or reach home.

Advanced Rules (Optional in Online Ludo)

Fast Mode: Players start with one token already out.
Team Mode: Two players pair up, and the first team to finish wins.
Timer Mode: Each player has limited time for a turn.

Read New Blog (Advance Ludo Strategies for Competitive Players)

Conclusion

Ludo is one of the simplest yet most entertaining board games. While the rules are easy to understand, mastering the game requires strategy and observation. By learning how to set up the board, move tokens, and plan your moves, you can increase your chances of winning.

Whether you play offline or online, always remember that Ludo is a game of fun and skill. It is a great way to bond with friends and family while also challenging your decision-making abilities.

Enjoy the game responsibly – set time limits, play for entertainment, and focus on having fun rather than just winning. With a bit of planning, you’ll soon be surprising your opponents with smart strategies and clever moves.

FAQs

1. How many players can play Ludo?

Ludo can be played by 2–4 players in the classic version, and up to 6 in some online versions.

2. What number is needed to bring a token out?

You need to roll a 6 to bring a token out of the home area.

3. Can you cut an opponent’s token on a safe square?

No. Tokens on safe squares cannot be cut.

4. How do you win in Ludo?

The first player to bring all four tokens home wins the game.

5. Is Ludo a game of luck or skill?

Ludo involves both luck (dice rolls) and skill (strategic moves and plannin