How to play Risk

The objective

Your goal is simple: control territories and complete the chosen conquest objective. This guide uses the most common beginner-friendly rules. Families and groups may agree on variations before starting.

What you need

A Risk board, armies, cards, and dice.

How to set up

1. Choose an objective and distribute territories and armies.
2. Place starting armies before play begins.

How to play: step by step

1. Reinforce territories at the start of your turn.
2. Attack adjacent enemy territories with dice.
3. Move armies into conquered territory.
4. Fortify one connected position at the end of the turn.

Beginner strategies

• Protect borders instead of every territory equally.
• Earn continent bonuses only when they can be defended.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Leaving newly conquered areas empty.
• Continuing a costly attack without a clear benefit.

Frequently asked questions