Mornington Crescent

Mornington Crescent can be a complex game and is certainly a competitive one. A good player is one who really wants to win - pure ambition can sometimes be more effective than the subtlest of gambits. Perhaps that's why there's often so much apparently petty bickering over detailed rule interpretation.

That said, the game is intended to be fun first and foremost. Not just for the players but also for the audience who are following the twists and turns. Yes, you want to win - but not at the expense of upsetting your friends.

So the way to play Mornington Crescent is to play hard, play to win, but never forget that it really is only a game.

The rules of Mornington Crescent are really quite simple, however many people have trouble understanding them. This is probably because there are so many variations. These can range from simple optional rules (such as being "in spoon") to variations so complex that they almost constitute a different game. Some variations are, to be honest, rather silly (eg mainline statons being wild).

The important thing to remember is that all these variations and variants are optional. It's quite possible to play the game without any of them. If you get a solid grasp of the basic rules first then you'll find it easier to understand the more complex ones.

If you're new to the game then I suggest you play with the basic rules. Stick to them first until you feel comfortable before introducing more advanced concepts.

Rules disputes are unavoidable in any game. Don't be afraid to ask a more experienced player for advice.

Strategy in Mornington Crescent can become extremely complex, however there are a few basics to remember:

Don't get huffed!
Not all rule sets allow huffing, but if they do then watch out for it. Being huffed is the sign of a beginner.

Use the reverse
The reverse is a very powerful move often overlooked by beginners. It doesn't always work but when it does it can be devastating

Avoid the Dollis Hill loop
Dollis Hill is definitely for experts only, don't play it until you've got plenty of experience at lower levels

Image: The Art of War, Special Edition

For more information about the history, rules and strategy of Mornington Crescent please contact the International Mornington Crescent Society (IMCS).

For more about games and puzzles in general you might like to visit Galapemy.