Serpent's Path

"The journey of life and fortune"

Game Setup

About the Game

Serpent's Path is a classic traveler's game that combines elements of chance and strategy. Players navigate a path filled with serpents and ropes, testing their luck and decision-making skills.

Materials Required

  • Board with 100 squares arranged in 10 rows
  • 2-4 player tokens
  • 1 six-sided die
  • Board markings: 12 serpents and 10 ropes

Rules

  1. Players roll die to determine first player (highest goes first)
  2. On your turn, roll die and move token that many spaces
  3. If you land on a rope's bottom, climb to its top
  4. If you land on a serpent's head, slide to its tail
  5. Must roll exact number to reach final square
  6. First player to reach final square wins

Strategy Notes

  • Short ropes early game can be better than long ones
  • Middle board serpents most dangerous
  • Position near ropes when possible
  • Avoid squares before major serpents

Cultural Significance

Serpent's Path is particularly popular among:

  • Traveling merchants
  • Caravan guards
  • Adventuring parties
  • River boat crews