Objective of the Game
Dog or Swiss Dog Race is a board game played by two teams, often with cards, reminiscent of Ludo. The objective is to get all your pieces into the safe zone.
Setup
- Setup the Board: The game uses a circular board divided into spaces.
- Place Pawns: Each team has a certain number of pawns (usually four), placed on the starting space.
- Shuffle Cards: A card set (usually a modified deck) is shuffled and dealt to each player.
Rules of the Game
- Teams and Partners: The game is played in teams (typically two teams with two players each). Team members sit opposite each other.
- Round Start: Each player receives a certain number of cards at the beginning of a round (depending on the agreed rules).
- Turn Order: Players take turns in a counter-clockwise manner.
Card Functions
Each card has special functions that dictate piece movements: - Number Cards (2 to 10): Move your piece forward the number of spaces corresponding to the card. - Face Cards: These have special functions, such as: - Ace (1): Move one space forward or use a special rule that may be associated with the Ace. - King: Shift a piece - Joker: Use it for special maneuvers, like swapping pieces.
Movement Rules
- Entry: A specific card might be needed to bring a pawn into play (e.g., an Ace or King).
- Safe Spaces: There are special spaces where pieces are safe from being captured, which varies with different rule sets.
- Capturing: If a piece lands on a space occupied by an opponent's piece, the opponent's piece is sent back to the start.
- Blockades: Specific rules determine how blockades by two pieces of the same color are handled.
Strategy Tips
- Communication: While non-verbal communication with partners is often required, it helps to silently align game strategies.
- Card Retention: Think strategically about when to use certain cards. The deliberate use of face cards can be crucial.
- Piece Movement: Decide wisely which piece to move forward to minimize the risk of being sent back to start.
Ending the Game
The game ends when a team has moved all their pieces safely into the finish zone. This team is the winner.
