Ludo is a classic board game that has been a part of family gatherings, friendly get-togethers, and casual play for generations. While luck plays a significant role in Ludo, as it is a dice-based game, strategy is just as important for increasing your chances of winning. Every roll of the dice can either make or break your game, but there are ways you can use the dice to your advantage and ensure you’re playing smarter, not harder.
In this article, we’ll look at how to use the Ludo dice in your favour, combining both strategy and luck to help you win your next Ludo game. Whether you’re playing with family, friends, or on a Ludo app, these tips will improve your chances of becoming the Ludo champion.
The Role of Luck vs. Strategy in Ludo
Before diving into how to use the dice to your advantage, it’s important to understand the balance between luck and strategy in Ludo.
- Luck is what determines the numbers you roll on the dice. There’s no way to predict what number you’ll roll next, and that’s what makes the game exciting.
- Strategy is how you use the numbers you roll. What moves you make, how you manage your pieces, and how you navigate the board—these are all in your control.
A smart player knows how to turn a bad roll into an advantage and how to make the best use of a good roll. Let’s explore how you can do just that.
Prioritise Getting All Your Tokens Out Early
In Ludo, each player has four tokens that need to complete a full round on the board to reach the home space. However, tokens can only leave the starting space when you roll a six. A common mistake many players make is focusing on just one token, but it’s always better to get all your tokens out as early as possible.
Here’s why:
- More tokens on the board mean more opportunities: Once all your tokens are on the board, you have more options for movement when you roll the dice. You can spread out your tokens and increase your chances of progressing toward your home.
- You avoid bottlenecks: If you only have one or two tokens on the board, you’re risking getting stuck in a tough spot or being easily sent back to the start by your opponents.
Tip: Always prioritise getting a six to bring a new token out. Once you have at least two or three tokens on the board, you can start playing more strategically.
Maximise Your Sixes
Rolling a six is a blessing in Ludo. Not only does it allow you to bring a new token into play, but it also gives you an extra roll. A common beginner’s mistake is wasting this opportunity by making a rushed decision.
Here’s how to make the most out of your sixes:
- Bring out new tokens first: If you have tokens stuck in the starting area, use the six to bring them out before anything else. More tokens on the board mean more flexibility.
- If all tokens are out, move strategically: If all your tokens are already on the board, use the six to advance the token that’s closest to reaching home, unless doing so would put it in danger of being captured.
Tip: If you roll a six and all your tokens are out of the starting area, use the roll strategically to either move a token forward to safety or chase down an opponent’s token that is within your reach.
Safety First: Use Your Dice to Protect Your Tokens
One of the most frustrating parts of Ludo is getting your tokens sent back to the starting area by opponents. This happens when an opponent’s token lands on the same square as one of your tokens. To avoid this, make use of safe spots and plan your moves accordingly.
Here’s how:
- Know the safe spots: There are specific squares on the Ludo board, usually marked, that are safe spots. No opponent can capture your token if it lands on these spots. Prioritise moving your tokens to these safe spots whenever possible.
- Don’t rush into danger: If an opponent’s token is nearby and there’s a high chance they can capture yours on their next turn, play it safe. Move a different token or try to land on a safe spot.
Tip: Always be aware of where your opponent’s tokens are on the board. Plan your moves to stay out of their reach, especially when you’re only a few spaces away from getting your token home.
Target Opponents Strategically
In Ludo, capturing an opponent’s token is not only satisfying but also gives you a big advantage. When you send their token back to the start, they have to roll another six to bring it back onto the board, giving you a head start.
Here’s how to target your opponents strategically:
- Go after vulnerable tokens: If your opponent has a token that’s within reach of your dice roll and isn’t on a safe spot, take the opportunity to send them back to the start. It sets them back while giving you a psychological edge.
- Prioritise opponents who are close to winning: If one of your opponents has tokens close to reaching their home, they become the biggest threat. Target their tokens to stop them from winning.
Tip: Avoid getting too aggressive too early in the game. Focus on progressing your own tokens in the early stages, and only target your opponents when they pose a threat.
Focus on Getting Tokens Home
Once your tokens have completed a full round of the board, they need to reach the home column to win. Getting your tokens into the home area should be your top priority once they’re close.
Here’s how to do it:
- Don’t take unnecessary risks: If your token is close to reaching the home area, don’t expose it to your opponents. Even if you have to move a little slower, focus on getting the token safely into the home area.
- Use strategic rolls to move into the home area: When your token is on the final stretch, you need exact numbers on the dice to move into the home area. Pay attention to your rolls and calculate the safest way to move your token home without getting caught by an opponent.
Tip: Try not to leave your tokens too exposed near the home area. Opponents may target your token if they feel threatened by its progress.
Plan Moves in Advance
While luck controls what number appears on the dice, strategy is about what you do with those numbers. Always plan your moves in advance.
- Look ahead: Before you roll, think about the possible outcomes and what you will do with each. For example, if you roll a five, where can you move your token to avoid an opponent? If you roll a six, is it better to bring out a new token or advance an existing one?
- Weigh your options: If you have multiple tokens on the board, you’ll have more options for movement. Take a moment to decide which token will benefit most from your dice roll. Should you move a token closer to home, or should you bring a new one out for more flexibility?
Tip: Always keep a mental note of your opponent’s positions. If you can anticipate their next moves, you can better plan your own strategy.
Keep a Balance Between Attack and Defense
One of the most common dilemmas in Ludo is whether to play aggressively or defensively. While it’s tempting to chase down your opponents, focusing solely on attacking can leave your own tokens vulnerable.
Here’s how to strike a balance:
- Defensive play: If you’re ahead in the game, it’s better to play defensively. Focus on getting your tokens home safely rather than exposing them to opponents.
- Aggressive play: If you’re behind, playing aggressively by targeting your opponents can help level the playing field. However, don’t sacrifice your own progress just to send an opponent back to the start.
Tip: Adjust your strategy based on your position in the game. If you’re ahead, play it safe. If you’re falling behind, take calculated risks to turn the game around.
Conclusion: Combine Luck and Strategy for the Win
While luck plays a big role in Ludo, you can tilt the odds in your favour by using a smart strategy. Understanding when to bring out new tokens, how to protect your tokens from opponents, and when to go on the offensive can greatly improve your chances of winning.
Remember, Ludo is a game of both chance and skill. By making thoughtful moves, planning ahead, and staying flexible with your strategy, you can turn even a bad roll of the dice into an advantage. So, the next time you sit down for a game of Ludo, use these strategies to outsmart your opponents and claim victory!