Risk Basic Strategy

You've read the rules, checked out the components and analyzed the map. Nice. But now what? Are you ready to test your metal? Good. Here are a few realistic reminders that just might give you the edge as you plot to demolish the other players.

Focus on the goal; focus on the Objectives.

It's not possible to earn all eight Objectives - nope, no way. Deal with it. So examine the Objectives and your position and attempt the Objective that best fits your position. Keep your eyes on the prize. Focus on your next move and your next move and your next...

Risk is an aggressive game: you must grow to win.

Winning means growing an awesome army. There are two main ways to do this: cards and continents. To earn a card you have to conquer at least one territory during your turn. Holding an entire continent at the start of your turn generates bonus armies. Savvy?

When attacking, it is better to make a few large attacks versus many small attacks.

Since the defender wins all ties, go after the weakling with 3 to 1 odds or better. A monster force allows you to use more dice - the more dice you roll, the better your odds of winning the battle.

Protect your Capitol - you cannot win the game without it.

Practice safe security. Never leave your Capitol unprotected. You should have at least two armies surrounding the city at all times.

Capture your opponents' Capital whenever possible.

Never pass up a righteous shot at capturing the enemy's Capitol. They can't take you down without it and it will beef up your armies during the drafting phase.

Do not hesitate to eliminate a player from the game.

Take no prisoners. Man up and mow 'em down to increase your odds at victory. Nab all their cards and Objectives. (You can't claim another players' Rewards, though.)

Know the map.

New players are fresh meat with huge egos. Typically they initiate massive attacks leaving their armies defenseless ending in colossal defeats. When picking at the bones remember that not all territories are created equal. The strongholds on the Risk map are Argentina, Madagascar, Japan and Eastern. Weaklings include North Africa, East Africa, China, Russia, Southern Europe and the Middle East which can each be invaded from six different directions. Not good.

It's survival of the fittest, man. It's not enough that you get strong, you have to weaken your opponents. Get out of their way and let them battle each other. When the smog settles and these battles have bloodied the board - strike and eliminate the weakest player.