How to Win at Stratego

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Reviewed by Ashton Wu

Last Updated: January 31, 2024

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Like the game Stratego but can't seem to win at it? Here are some tips for winning!

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Setting Up

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1
Know the basics. ^{[1]
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- Know that the flag is the most important aspect.
- Know that traps stop everything except the piece with the number "3" on it.
- Know that pieces with the number "2" can move any number of spaces in one direction.
- Know that pieces with the number "3" and "3" only diffuse traps.
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These pieces will be your scouts on the front line. Because they can move any number of spaces in one direction, they should get a position on the front lines. This also is a distraction to your opponent. Your opponent will think that one of the scouts is your flag, creating a red herring.

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It is recommended that you place your flag behind a natural boundary, so you will have to use less traps. Also, most people usually put their flag in the back, so doing this will throw your opponent off. ^{[2]
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Surround your flag with one layer of traps. Scatter the rest of the remaining traps. ^{[3]
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Your "1" piece could also be a letter, most commonly "S". It is recommended that you put the "1" and "10" piece next to each other in the second or third row.
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It is recommended that you place these pieces behind the "2" pieces. If you find a tram with the "2" pieces, you can disarm in with a "3" piece.
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These pieces can be placed anywhere you want.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Playing the Game

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This is important! You can get "hints" from your opponent by doing this.
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This is where their flag will most likely be.
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If you hit a trap, their flag will most likely be in the vicinity.
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It will most likely be the "1" piece, the only piece that beats a "10".
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Although you may have been ignoring it, defense is one of the most important aspects of this game. Make sure you have a strong protective line with strong pieces and minimal gaps. ^{[4]
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If not, keep playing and practicing!

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Question

What happens if I kill all the players before I get the flag?

Community Answer

You win. You still have to get the flag, but there isn't anyone to stop you from doing that.

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Things You'll Need

Stratego the board game (any version)

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How to Win at Stratego

Steps

Setting Up

Playing the Game

Community Q&A

Video

Tips

Things You'll Need

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