The Royal Game of Ur

The Royal Game of Ur is an ancient two-player race and strategy game from Mesopotamia, around 2600 BC. The core objective is to be the first to move all your pieces off the board, navigating them safely across a distinctive cross-shaped track.

How to Play The Royal Game of Ur

Each player begins with seven tokens off the board. Players take turns rolling dice to determine how many spaces to move a piece. You may choose to move a new token onto the starting square or advance one already in play. Landing exactly on an opponent's piece captures it, sending that token back to its owner's start. The first player to move all their pieces off the board wins.

Main Gameplay

This classic race game blends chance and tactics. The dice rolls introduce randomness, but strategic decisions are key. Players must decide which pieces to advance, when to risk exposing them, and how to use their pieces to block the opponent's path. The board features special marked squares that may grant an extra roll, adding a layer of opportunity to your turns.

Tips for Players

Balance aggression with caution. Advancing quickly can secure an extra roll, but may leave your pieces vulnerable. Consider holding a piece back to block key squares on the board. Protecting your own tokens is as important as capturing your opponent's. A successful player adapts their strategy based on the dice and the current layout on the board.