Rules for Sorry: How to Win the Classic Board Game

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Looking for the rules for Sorry? Whether you’re teaching a new player or need a quick refresher, this guide walks you through the official board game Sorry instructions, from setup to winning. The game of Sorry is a family-friendly board game of chance and strategy that has remained popular for generations.

rules for sorry

Table of Contents

Overview of the Sorry Board Game

Sorry is a classic board game for 2 to 4 players, where each player tries to be the first to move all four of their pawns from start to home. The game is known for its iconic “Sorry!” card mechanic that lets players bump others back to start, adding both tension and excitement.

Rules for Sorry: Game Setup and Equipment

Before diving into the directions for Sorry, make sure you have:

  • 1 Sorry game board
  • 45 cards (numbered 1–12 (but no 6 or 9 card) and special Sorry! cards)
  • 16 pawns (4 for each color: red, blue, green, and yellow)

Each player selects a color and places their four pawns in their start area. Shuffle the cards and place them face down in the draw pile. Choose a player to start. Players take turns in a clockwise direction.

Rules for Sorry: Card Meanings and Movements

A big part of understanding the board game Sorry rules is knowing how each card works. Here’s a breakdown of the main card instructions:

  • 1 & 2: Move one or two spaces. (2 allows another draw.)
  • 3, 5, 8, 12: Move forward the number of spaces.
  • 4: Move backward four spaces.
  • 7: Split movement between two pawns.
  • 10: Move forward 10 or backward 1.
  • 11: Move 11 or swap places with another player’s pawn.
  • Sorry!: Replace another player’s pawn with one of yours from start and send theirs back.

Knowing these board game Sorry instructions is key to playing effectively.

Classic Sorry Game Rules: Basic Gameplay

Turn Order

Players draw one card per turn and follow the card’s action. You must always make a move if one is possible. Skip your first turn if you do not draw a card that lets you move a pawn.

Moving Out of Start

You can only move a pawn out of start with a 1, 2, or a Sorry! card.

Bumping and Safety

Landing on another player’s pawn sends it back to start unless the pawn is in its “Safety Zone.” You cannot enter another player’s safety.

Directions for Game Sorry: How to Win

The goal is to get all four pawns into your home zone. You must land on home with an exact count. For example, if you’re three spaces away, you need to draw a 3 to get in.

Understanding the directions for Sorry board game and planning your moves carefully can increase your odds of winning.

Alternate Versions and Classic Sorry Variants

The classic Sorry game rules have inspired several versions, including:

  • Sorry! Fire & Ice: Adds new power tokens and movement rules.
  • Sorry! Sliders: Uses a different playing mechanism entirely.
  • Retro Editions: Stick closely to the classic Sorry rules many players remember.

Some households use custom directions for Sorry the game, but it’s best to agree on house rules before starting.

FAQ: Rules for Sorry and Common Questions

What are the official rules for Sorry?

The rules for Sorry state that players draw a card each turn and move a pawn accordingly. Cards like 1, 2, and Sorry! allow players to exit start. You win by getting all your pawns to home.

See the 2003 Hasbro rules for Sorry for the official rules of that version of the game.

There are also rules for Sorry from 1992 and much older rules from 1972 for the Sorry game.

Can you split a 7 move between two pawns?

Yes. According to board game Sorry rules, the 7 card allows you to split the move between two of your own pawns, but not in a way that bypasses safety rules.

Do you have to bump if you land on an opponent?

Yes. If your move ends on an opponent’s pawn and it’s not in the safety zone, they go back to start. This is a key part of classic Sorry rules.

Can you draw a card if you can’t move?

Yes, you still draw a card. If no move is possible, you skip your turn, following directions for Sorry gameplay.

What happens if all your pawns are in home?

You win the game! The first player to get all four pawns to home using the exact count wins, per game of Sorry rules.

Final Thoughts on Rules for Sorry

Mastering the rules for Sorry is easy with the right instructions. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or teaching a new generation, the directions for Sorry ensure hours of strategic fun. With various editions and some optional house rules, the board game Sorry instructions may vary slightly—but the core game remains a timeless favorite.

See our Board Games category for more board game rules.