Who Created the Game of Ludo? A Look into the History, Development, Origins, Variations, and Foundations of the Ludo Board Game
August 20, 2024
August 20, 2024
Ludo Game, a game cherished by families and friends for generations, has a history as colorful as its board. Did you know that the Ludo game we enjoy today originated in ancient India? It was originally known as Chaupar or Pachisi and was a favorite among royalty. As time went on, this game evolved and spread across the globe, eventually becoming the modern Ludo we know and love.
Ludo Game is a timeless board game that people of all ages can enjoy. It’s easy to pick up and play, making it a popular choice for leisure time—about 60% of Indians reportedly choose Ludo Game when they want to relax.
Originating in India, Ludo Game was adapted by the British and transformed into various modern versions, including digital formats. The game is usually played on a square board divided into four colored sections, each representing a player’s home base.
To win, you need to move all your tokens from your starting base to the central area of the board. The first player to get all their tokens to the center wins. You can also capture opponents’ tokens to gain an advantage. While this is a classic version of the game, remember there are many other variants and features depending on how you choose to play.
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Ludo Game, a game with origins dating back to the 6th century, was first developed in the Indian subcontinent. Originally known as Pachisi, it has also been called Chaupar, Chausar, and Parcheesi. Over the centuries, from ancient kings and emperors to ordinary people, Ludo has continued to entertain players.
Evidence of Ludo Game early existence can be found in the Ellora Caves, which were constructed between the 6th and 8th centuries CE. Carvings in these caves suggest that the game was highly popular and valued enough to be depicted in the artwork of the time.
The traditional Pachisi game was eventually adapted into its modern form, using a six-sided die instead of the original method. In 1896, it was patented as “Ludo Game” in England. The Royal Navy later adapted Ludo Game into a board game called Uckers. The version we know today is largely credited to England, where it was patented in 1986.
In Hindu mythology, the game we now know as Ludo was originally called Pachisi or “Pasha” and was played in rural courts. Its significance grew when Shakuni, a scheming advisor to the Kauravas, cursed the dice to ensure the Pandavas’ defeat. This curse led to the Pandavas losing everything, illustrating how Pachisi, the predecessor of modern Ludo, played a key role in these ancient stories.
Ludo Game origins trace back to our ancestors and their earlier games, Chaupar and Chausar. These ancient games used four-sided dice called quaternary lots and were played on cross-shaped boards made of cloth and wool. Four players, often in two teams, used sixteen wooden pieces. These games were especially popular among royalty.
Another early version of Ludo was Pachisi. It used long dice and cowry shells, and was sometimes called the “poor man’s Chaupar.”
Dice have always been a key element in Ludo. In ancient India, dice were shaped like cubes or rectangles and featured various symbols or numbers of dots on their sides.
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With today’s technological advancements, Ludo has evolved from a simple board game into a widely popular online game. What started as Chaupar has transformed into various modern versions accessible through apps. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ludo gained even more popularity as people, stuck at home, used it for entertainment and to stay connected with others.
Now, you can find many different versions of Ludo available both online and offline. Despite all the new updates and tech innovations, the core of the game remains unchanged: the objective is still to reach the center of the board to win.
Ludo’s simple rules, intuitive interface, and online play make it a favorite pastime. Plus, with modern adaptations, you can now earn rewards while enjoying the game.
Alfred Collier is often credited with inventing the modern version of Ludo. In 1891, he was the first to apply for a patent for his game, which he called “Royal Ludo.” His patent was granted later that same year, giving him exclusive rights to the game and preventing others from copying it. As a result, “Collier Ludo Boards” and their rule book were sold worldwide.
However, Collier did not actually invent Ludo. Similar games were played in the royal court of Akbar, where the game of Pachisi was popular and played on boards divided into colored sections. Additionally, Ludo-like games are mentioned in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata.
Ludo’s widespread popularity has inspired many different versions and adaptations around the globe. Each variant has its unique features and special elements, reflecting the creativity of various cultures. Whether through altered rules or redesigned boards, these Ludo versions highlight how people have put their own spin on the game. Let’s take a look at some of these interesting variations from different countries and see how Ludo has evolved and diversified worldwide.
| Name | Country of Origin |
| Uckers | British |
| Pachisi | Indian |
| Fia | Swedish |
| Eile mit Weile | Swiss |
| Cờ cá ngựa | Vietnamese |
| Parchís | Spanish |
| Parqués | Colombian |
Ludo has straightforward and easy-to-learn rules. You can play the game solo or with multiple players, either individually or in teams. Each player picks their token colors and starting area. Players can choose to enter the game with just one token or all four, based on their preference.
In this game, two to four players compete individually, not in teams. Each player begins with four tokens of their color, placed in their corner of the board. Players take turns moving their tokens around the board in a circular path. When a token reaches the home stretch, it moves up a column towards the finish line. The first player to get all four tokens to the central area wins. Other players can continue playing to determine who finishes in second, third, and fourth place.
In this game, rolling a six lets you take another turn unless all your pieces are already on the board. However, if you roll three sixes in a row, you’ll have to skip your turn. The special end spot is your safe zone. To win, you must roll the exact number needed to get your pieces into these final spots.
Players roll dice to move their tokens around the board. You need to roll a six to get a token onto the board from your starting area. Be careful as you move; if you land on an opponent’s piece, you have to start over. If you land on your own piece, you create a “block.” If your opponent lands on a block you’ve created, their piece is sent back to the start!
The board is typically square with a cross-shaped layout. Each arm of the cross has three columns of squares, usually six squares per column. The central columns have five colored squares, representing each player’s home column. There’s also a sixth colored square, which serves as the player’s starting point.
In the center of the board is a large finishing square, often marked with colored triangles that form “arrows” pointing toward the finish.
Each of the four corners of the board is a different color. Each player is given a color token and starts from one of these corners. To win, a player must move all four of their tokens to the center before any other player does.
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By the end, you should have a clear understanding of Ludo, including its fascinating history and how it has developed into the version we know today. Originating in India around the 6th century, Ludo has evolved over time but remains popular worldwide. More than just a game of moving pieces on a board, Ludo represents a convergence of various cultures. So, when playing Ludo with friends or family, remember its rich history and the way it unites people from different backgrounds.
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Ludo’s origins in India date back to the 6th century, during the time of Maharajas. Evidence of this can be found in the Ellora Caves. Additionally, the game’s roots are also referenced in the Mahabharata from Hindu mythology.
Ludo is a traditional board game believed to have originated in India, but it was named “Ludo” in England in 1896.
While there are no foolproof strategies for winning Ludo, certain tactics can improve your chances.
Ludo is an ancient game that has been around since the 6th century. Despite its age, it remains popular today.
The version of Ludo we know today was patented by Alfred Collier in England in 1896. At that time, it was called “Royal Ludo.”
Several apps offer real cash prizes for playing Ludo. Here are the top 10 Ludo money-earning apps in India:
While there are no guaranteed strategies for winning Ludo, following these tips can enhance your chances:
