Parchesi was reintroduced to me some years back by a friend of mine, and I must admit that this game works for both children (if memory serves) and adults. Notwithstanding the relatively simple rules and some chance, strategy and shifting alliances are necessary to compete. In order to target the leader, one must often have a short memory in order to ally with an opponent who just recently ruined your whole strategy. (Unfortunately, I've found that some players have longer memories.) Modern Parchesi was developed in 1867, and the game is marketed as the "Royal Game of India". I read that the original game dates back to 500 BC and that slave girls were used as the pieces on the palace grounds.

Played this all the time as a kid but don't know if I would even remember how now!

I always hated Parchesi. Although, I only played older versions and found it extremely boring.

I have to admit, I was impresed with this game. It's not the usual chase game... you can actually work together with opponents or target specific players - but make sure everyone playing knows the rules (all of them) and it's better with a full set of 4 people.

5 stars only for an improved version (otherwise, its can be rather dull): My wife and I will play 2 colors at once (opposite corners). It is surprisingly more intriguing and requires some serious and occasionally kooky and brilliant strategy. Still you don't walk away exhausted--it remains an easy-going game. I could never play the original rules again.

A very fun board game, although not as good as its closer ripoffs.