Many players mistakenly believe that the Safety Zone is a one-way street, but certain cards can force movement in the opposite direction.
According to the Winning Moves Inc. Official Rulebook, a player may move backwards through the entrance square of their Safety Zone if compelled by specific cards.
Sorry! Official Rulebook, Winning Moves Inc., [page not specified]
These rules correspond to the UK edition of Sorry!
Official Rule Breakdown
Regarding backward movement in the Safety Zone, the official rules state that a Safety Zone is typically entered only by a forward move through the square marked 'Enters to Go Home.' However, if a player is compelled by the play of a 4 or 10 card to move backwards from their Safety Zone, they may pass backwards to (or through) this entrance square in the reverse direction of the arrow. This rule does not apply to the exchange of pieces by an opponent through the play of an 11 card. …
Example Play Situation
Alice has a yellow man in her Safety Zone. Bob draws a 10 card and moves his man backward 1 space, which happens to land on Alice's man. Alice must then move her man backwards through the entrance square to follow the reverse direction of the arrow.
Common Misconceptions
- The Safety Zone is only for forward movement
- The 'Enters to Go Home' square is a one-way entrance
- You cannot move backwards if you are already in the Safety Zone
Quick Reference
| You Can | You Cannot |
|---|---|
| Move backwards through the entrance square when playing a 4 or 10 card | Move forward beyond the entrance square unless entering the Safety Zone |
| Count every square on the board even when passing over other men | Use a 7 card to move a piece backward |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the official rule for backward movement in the Safety Zone in Sorry!?
- You can move backwards through the entrance square if a 4 or 10 card forces the move.
- Can I move my man backwards if I draw a 10?
- Yes, if you cannot or do not wish to move forward 10 spaces, you must move a man backward 1 space.
- Is it allowed to move backwards through the 'Enters to Go Home' square?
- Yes, this is permitted when a 4 or 10 card compels a backward move from the Safety Zone.
- What happens if I draw a 4 while my only man is in the Safety Zone?
- You must move that man backward 4 spaces if you have no other man in play.
