Parcheesi

Parcheesi is a cross and circle board game that is derived from the Indian game Pachisi. Often described as the "Royal Game of India," its design is attributed to the Mughal emperors. Parcheesi is typically played with two to four players, each controlling four pieces. The objective of the game is to move all four of a player's pieces from their starting position, around the board, and into the home space before the other players do the same.

The game board features a cruciform shape with a central square and four arms radiating outwards. Each arm is divided into three columns of spaces. Specific spaces are designated as "safe spaces" or "castles" where pieces are immune from being captured by opponents.

Players roll dice to determine how many spaces they can move their pieces. A roll of a 6 allows a player to move a piece out of the starting area and onto the board. Strategic decisions involve choosing which piece to move, blocking opponents' progress, and capturing opponents' pieces by landing on the same space as them (unless that space is a safe space).

Capturing an opponent's piece forces that piece to return to its starting area. Certain dice rolls award bonus turns, allowing players to make additional moves.

Parcheesi is a game of both luck and strategy. The dice rolls introduce an element of chance, while strategic planning is crucial for effectively moving pieces, blocking opponents, and avoiding capture. Its simple rules and engaging gameplay have made it a popular family game worldwide. It is related to other similar board games like Ludo, Sorry!, and Aggravation.