Squatter: Rules, Strategies, and Winning Instructions Explained

Introduction

As a lover of board games, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting games to play. One such game that has caught my attention is Squatter. Squatter is a fascinating board game that originated in Australia. It is based on the concept of sheep farming, which is a significant part of Australia’s economy and culture. The game was first introduced in 1962 and has since gained popularity worldwide. To play Squatter, you will need the Squatter board game, which includes a game board, dice, and playing pieces.

Rules for Playing Squatter

1. The game begins with each player choosing a home station. The player who rolls the highest number on the dice goes first.
2. Players take turns to roll the dice and move their playing pieces around the board.
3. When a player lands on an unowned station, they can buy it from the bank. If the station is already owned by another player, they must pay rent to the owner.
4. The game continues until all players have either gone bankrupt or one player owns all the stations.

These are the official rules of Squatter. However, like many board games, players often come up with their own ‘house rules’ to add a unique twist to the game.

How to Play Squatter

Setup

Each player chooses a playing piece and places it on their chosen home station. The bank is set up with a set amount of money, and the game begins.

Gameplay

Players take turns to roll the dice and move their pieces around the board. They can buy unowned stations, pay rent for stations owned by other players, or take a chance with the ‘Squatter’ and ‘Sheep’ cards.

End of the Game

The game ends when all players except one have gone bankrupt, or one player owns all the stations.

How to Win at Squatter

Winning at Squatter requires a combination of luck, strategy, and careful planning. Here are some strategies that can help you win:

1. Acquire as many stations as possible early in the game. This will give you a steady income and a strong foundation.
2. Be strategic about which stations you buy. Some stations are more valuable than others, so choose wisely.
3. Keep an eye on your opponents’ moves and try to block them whenever possible.
4. Use the ‘Squatter’ and ‘Sheep’ cards to your advantage. These cards can change the course of the game, so use them wisely.

Best Strategies for Playing Squatter

While luck plays a part in Squatter, a good strategy can significantly increase your chances of winning. Here are some of the best strategies for playing Squatter:

1. Focus on acquiring stations early in the game. The more stations you own, the more rent you can collect from other players.
2. Be strategic about which stations you buy. Some stations are more valuable than others, so choose wisely.
3. Keep an eye on your opponents’ moves and try to block them whenever possible.
4. Use the ‘Squatter’ and ‘Sheep’ cards to your advantage. These cards can change the course of the game, so use them wisely.

Scenarios for Squatter

Playing Squatter can lead to a variety of scenarios. Here are some common scenarios and how to handle them:

1. If you land on a station owned by another player, you must pay rent. If you don’t have enough money, you may have to sell some of your stations.
2. If you land on an unowned station, you have the option to buy it. If you don’t have enough money, you can choose to pass.
3. If you draw a ‘Squatter’ or ‘Sheep’ card, you must follow the instructions on the card. This can lead to unexpected twists and turns in the game.

Frequently Asked Questions about Playing Squatter

1. How many players can play Squatter? Squatter can be played by 2 to 6 players.
2. How long does a game of Squatter usually last? A game of Squatter typically lasts about 90 minutes.
3. Can I play Squatter online? Yes, there are online versions of Squatter available.
4. Is Squatter suitable for children? Yes, Squatter is suitable for children aged 10 and up.
5. Where can I buy Squatter? Squatter can be purchased online or at board game stores.

External Links

For more information about Squatter, visit the official game website here.