Blokus Rules
Blokus is a fast-paced strategy board game where players compete to place as many of their pieces as possible on the board while blocking opponents. Players take turns placing uniquely shaped tiles on a 20x20 grid, following strict placement rules. The goal is simple: cover as much territory as possible while limiting your opponents’ options.
Created by Adam D Fernsby
How to Play Blokus Board Game
Blokus is easy to learn but offers deep tactical gameplay, making it perfect for families, strategy lovers, and puzzle enthusiasts. We at Playiro guides you!
Keep reading to learn all the rules of Blokus:
Preparations
- Players: 2–4 players
- Game Contents:
- 1 square game board (20x20 grid)
- 84 pieces in 4 colors (21 unique shapes per player)
- Each piece consists of 1 to 5 connected squares (polyominoes)
Setup
- Each player chooses a color and takes all 21 pieces.
- Players sit on one side of the board with their color in front of them.
- Each player’s starting square is the corner of the board.
- Place all tiles in front of you for easy access.
Gameplay
Blokus is played clockwise. The game starts with each player placing their first piece in their own corner.
On Your Turn:
- Place one piece from your color onto the board.
- Placement Rules:
- Each new piece must touch at least one other piece of the same color at a corner.
- Your pieces cannot touch edge-to-edge with your own pieces.
- Your pieces may touch opponents’ pieces at corners or edges without restriction.
- Once placed, pieces cannot be moved.
- If you cannot make a move, you pass your turn.
- The game ends when no player can place any more pieces.
Winning the Game
The game ends when no player can place any more tiles.
Scoring:
- Each player counts the number of unit squares in their unused pieces.
- Subtract that total from your score.
- Bonus Points:
- +15 points → If you placed all 21 pieces.
- +5 extra points → If your last piece was the smallest single-square tile.
- The player with the highest score wins.
Strategies and Tips
Winning Blokus is about planning ahead and controlling territory. Focus on flexibility, blocking opponents, and maximizing space.
Start Strong
- Play large or awkward pieces early while you still have space.
- Expand into the board quickly, aiming to reach multiple areas for future plays.
Defend Your Territory
- Build walls to control sections of the board.
- Protect your starting corner to ensure you don’t trap yourself.
Watch Your Opponents
- Block opponents from reaching large open areas.
- Anticipate where they want to play and cut off their routes.
Use Diagonals Wisely
- Remember: Your pieces must connect via corners, not edges.
- Always plan placements so that your next tile has a free corner to attach.
Overview of the Game Rules
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Goal | Place as many of your 21 pieces on the board as possible |
| Placement | Must touch your own pieces corner-to-corner only; no edge contact |
| Turns | Place 1 piece per turn; skip if you can’t play |
| Endgame | Game ends when no one can place any more pieces |
| Win | Highest score after all pieces are placed or blocked |
Variants & Other Editions
If you have mastered the main version of Blokus, you could try one of these alternaive options:
Blokus Duo
- A 2-player version with a smaller board.
- More head-to-head strategy and tighter space control.
Blokus Trigon
- Uses triangular tiles on a hexagonal board.
- Same core rules, but different spatial dynamics.
Travel Blokus
- A compact edition with a smaller board and pieces.
- Great for on-the-go play and shorter games.
Blokus Online
- Multiple unofficial apps and websites let you play online.
- Practice your strategy against friends or AI opponents.
FAQ
What are the Blokus rules in short?
Place a piece so it touches your own pieces at the corners but not the sides. Try to use all 21 pieces. No edge-to-edge contact with your own color.
What happens if I can’t play?
You skip your turn. Once all players are blocked, the game ends.
Can I play Blokus online?
Yes! There are free and paid Blokus online versions (both official and unofficial) for desktop and mobile platforms.
How do you win Blokus?
Use the most pieces and block your opponents. The fewer squares left in your unplayed tiles, the better your score.
Are there official Blokus rules UK editions?
Yes. Blokus rules UK editions follow the same gameplay, but wording or packaging might vary. The core mechanics are the same worldwide.
What's the difference in Blokus Trigon?
Blokus Trigon uses triangular pieces and a hex board instead of squares. The core rule, touching at the corners, still applies, but gameplay feels tighter and more geometric.