Description
Two armies, hidden ranks and one flag you have to find. Stratego is a classic strategy game for two in which you can't see what stands in front of you. Every piece has a rank that your opponent only learns in battle, and bombs are hidden among them too.
How to play Stratego
Behind the screen, each player sets up their 40 pieces in four rows on their half of the board: from the marshal down to the spy, six bombs and the flag. The ranks face you, so your opponent sees only the backs of your pieces. Once you remove the screen, the game begins.
On your turn, you move one piece one space forward, backward or sideways, or attack an adjacent enemy piece. You both state your rank and the lower one is out. Bombs destroy any piece except a miner. The first player to attack the opponent's flag wins.
Why you'll like it
- The setup at the start decides the game: bombs around the flag, or a bomb somewhere else to confuse your opponent.
- The spy is the weakest piece, but it defeats the marshal if it attacks first.
- The scout can move any distance, but once you move it, you've given it away.
- No dice, no cards: you win with memory, bluffing and smart risk-taking.
Who is Stratego for
The game is for 2 players aged 8 and up and takes about 45 minutes. It is moderately easy. The rules are quick to explain, but real skill comes with experience. It suits children and adults who like to plan ahead and try to outwit their opponent. There is no text on the pieces.
What might you not like?
The game is for two players only and isn't for those who don't enjoy direct confrontation. Setting up 40 pieces before every game takes some time, and one wrong move with a bomb or the spy can decide the game.
What's in the box
- game board
- screen
- two armies of 40 pieces each (red and blue)
- 3 extra pieces per player (marshal, lieutenant and scout in a male or female version)
- rulebook
