Quoridor – A Game of Strategy

Objective of the Game

The goal of Quoridor is to be the first player to navigate your pawn to the opposite side of the board. It involves cleverly placing obstacles to hinder your opponent while navigating your pawn effectively.

Game Components

• 1 Board with 9x9 squares
• 20 Fences
• 2 Pawns (for 2 players) or 4 Pawns (for 4 players)

Setup

1. Position the Pawns: For a 2-player game, each player places their pawn in the center of their first row. In a 4-player game, each pawn starts in the middle of their respective starting line.
2. Distribute the Fences: Divide the fences equally among the players. Each player receives 10 fences in a 2-player game and 5 fences in a 4-player game.

Gameplay

• The game is turn-based, starting with the player to the left of the starting player.
• On a turn, a player has two options: Move the Pawn or Place a Fence.

Turn Options

1. Moving the Pawn:

   • The pawn can be moved horizontally or vertically to an adjacent space.
   • Diagonal moves are not allowed.
   • If a pawn is adjacent to an opposing pawn, it may jump over it to the space directly behind if it's vacant.

2. Placing a Fence:

   • A fence is placed between two spaces, forming a barrier across them.
   • Fences cannot overlap each other.
   • You cannot place a fence that entirely blocks the opponent from reaching their goal line.

End of the Game

• The game ends when a player's pawn reaches the opponent’s baseline. That player wins the game.

Strategic Considerations

• Plan your moves ahead and consider if it's more beneficial to take shortcuts or block your opponent.
• Placing a fence at the right moment can force your opponent into a longer route.
• Use your fences strategically to force opponents into less advantageous positions.
• In a 4-player game, monitor other players' progress closely and consider forming temporary alliances against leading players.