Instructions Ludus Duodecim Scriptorum

Objective

Ludus Duodecim Scriptorum is a traditional Roman board game, known as a precursor to games like Backgammon. The objective is to move all of one's pieces along the 24 spaces on the board and then bear them off completely before the opponent.

Components

• A board with 24 spaces divided into three rows of 8 spaces each.
• Each player receives 15 pieces of a different color.
• The game uses three dice.

Setup

• Each player places their 15 pieces on the starting side of the board closest to them.
• The board is set up vertically between players.
• Players decide who goes first by rolling the dice or using another method.

Gameplay

1. Rolling the dice: The player whose turn it is rolls all three dice.
2. Movement: The numbers rolled indicate how many spaces pieces can be moved. A player can choose to move a single piece the sum of the dice or move multiple pieces according to the individual die values.
3. Movement Rules:
4. Pieces can only move to open spaces or spaces occupied by the player's own pieces.
5. If a space is occupied by an opponent's piece, it may be blocked or captured depending on specific house rules.
6. If an opponent's piece is captured, it is returned to the starting field.
7. Bearing Off: The goal is to move all pieces around the board and off it by rolling the exact number needed to bear off.

Strategic Tips

• Blocking: Attempt to hinder your opponent's progress by placing multiple pieces on one space to block them.
• Advance Carefully: Ensure the movement of multiple pieces to safety. Risky moves may leave your pieces vulnerable.

The game ends when a player successfully removes all their pieces from the board.