MPL Ludo might seem like a simple dice game, but if you want to win more games (and cash), you’re going to need more than luck. You need a strategy! 

Whether you're playing for fun or staking real money, avoiding common mistakes can instantly improve your win rate.

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To break down the most common mistakes (and how to fix them), we spoke with Emmanuel Omadudu, a Naija Ludo League champion and one of the best MPL Ludo players around. Here’s what he had to say.

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1. Playing Too Fast & Not Learning From Mistakes

“The biggest mistake players make is being impatient and not learning from their past mistakes,” Emmanuel says.

MPL Ludo follows patterns. If you don’t pay attention, you’ll keep making the same bad moves over and over. Slow down. Take a second to think before you roll, and analyse your past games. If you lost, why? Did you move the wrong token? Did you expose yourself too early?

Winning isn't about getting lucky—it’s about adapting.

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2. Bad Money Management (Why You Keep Losing Your Bankroll)

This one's very important, especially if you're playing MPL Ludo for real money.

“A lot of players gamble with little funds instead of managing their bankroll like a pro,” Emmanuel warns. “Me, I always say—if you want to stake a certain amount, make sure you have at least 10x that in your account.”

Going all in? Bad move. It puts pressure on you, and when you're stressed, you make mistakes. Instead, bet wisely and stay in control.

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3. Relying on Luck Instead of Strategy

Ludo has luck involved, for sure. But if you're only relying on lucky rolls, you won't last long.

"Using the wrong strategy leaves players frustrated," Emmanuel says. "You can't always be lucky; that's why you need a solid game plan."

The best players plan their moves ahead of time. They don’t just roll and hope for the best. They go further and position their tokens strategically, decide when to attack and defend, and know when to play aggressively versus staying safe.

Here’s a quick strategy fix to get you running:

• Prioritise safety over speed: rushing all your tokens out can get you eliminated fast.
• Use blocking tactics: position your tokens to block your opponent’s movement.
• Control the board: if you have a lead, force your opponent into defensive moves.

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4. Ignoring Timing & Token Movement

Ever lost a game you were sure you had in the bag? Timing might be the reason.

“I’ve won so many games from a losing position because I understood the best way to use my time,” Emmanuel reveals.

Sometimes, the best move isn’t the most obvious one. Delaying a token’s movement can help set up a better play later. On the flip side, moving too soon can leave you vulnerable.

This is one instance where patience and awareness are probably your greatest tools.

Here’s how to time your moves better:

• Don’t rush all your tokens out at once: having one safe token gives you a backup.
• Delay moving into risky zones: wait for your opponent to move first.
• Force your opponent into bad positions: control important board spaces before making your move.

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5. Not Understanding First Mover vs. Second Mover

This is something a lot of players overlook, but it matters more than you realise.

“In MPL Ludo, how you start determines how the game ends,” Emmanuel explains. “There’s a first mover (who plays first) and a second mover (who plays second). Each has advantages and disadvantages; if you can find the balance, you’ll know when to defend and when to attack.”

In a nutshell:

• First Mover: Can control the board early but is more exposed.
• Second Mover: Has the advantage of reacting to the first player's mistakes.

Pro Tip: If you're first, play aggressively early. If you're second, focus on defense and counterplay.

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6. Panicking During a Losing Streak

A losing streak can throw even the best players off their game. What is the difference between a good player and a great one? Knowing how to handle all that drama.

“A good player thinks they’ll always win,” Emmanuel says. “A great player understands that MPL Ludo has win and losing streaks; and knows what to do when the losing streak begins.”

Instead of tilting and making rash decisions, take a break. Adjust your strategy. Learn from each loss instead of letting it frustrate you.

Pro Tip: How to Break a Losing Streak:

• Take a break. Don’t play emotionally.
• Review past games. Ask yourself: what patterns caused the losses?
• Lower your stake. Work towards minimizing financial losses while you regain confidence.

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Final Thoughts

There you have it. MPL Ludo goes beyond the luck of rolling dice; it’s about strategy, patience, and smart decision-making. Avoid these common mistakes, and you'll start seeing better results, more wins, and fewer frustrating losses.

Ready to put these tips into action? Play MPL Ludo and see if you’ve got what it takes to dominate the board.