Roll The Bones: The Best Dice Games To Play Again And Again
Dice and dice-based games have been used by humans for thousands of years. They have even been excavated from ruins in Iran dating back an estimated 4,500 years!
They probably weren't playing Yahtzee back then - more likely they were casting animal bones to try to divine the future. Peter Piper will leave forecasting to the weatherman - he just wants to find a great dice game for game night and show his friends that he is pretty cool!
Join us as we review a handful of inexpensive, fun, and pretty cool games that you can play solo or with others. Whether your posse consists of adult friends or a group of raucous kids, gather them up for an adventure of chance and strategy.
You don't have to go to Las Vegas to Roll The Bones!
Peter Piper's Picks participates in Amazon Associates and other affiliate programs. We may earn commissions from purchases made by following links from our website. There is never any additional cost to you.
How We Choose The Best Dice Games
Like you, Peter Piper enjoys all types of entertaining diversions. Fortunately, there are more options available to consumers than ever before. We've taken the time to search out a handful of options that are highly rated and quite affordable. We're sure to pay attention to reviews and the personal experiences of our own team.
Peter Piper wants to give you the Perfect Pick when it comes to the best dice games.
Clue Diced by Hasbro: A Reboot of a Classic:
Do you remember Clue? The classic whodunit board game? Well, now you can play the board game without the board and wrap up the mystery within 20 minutes Professor Plum used to spend that much time in the bathroom, much less get a whole game in!
Clue Diced is very easy to learn and you'll be playing in no time. The gameplay is simple: players take turns rolling the dice and trying to guess who committed the crime. There are two culprits: the mastermind and the muscle.
Things to Know:
- For Everyone: Clue Diced is recommended for three to four players ages 8 and up.
- Quality: The quality of this product is excellent with sturdy components that will hold up well over time.
- Portability: This item comes packaged in a compact box that easily fits into any backpack or suitcase. What an easily portable great choice for at-home fun or on-the-road play!
- Great for Giving: This makes a great, inexpensive gift for adults and children alike.
Ravensburger Dungeons, Dice & Danger: A Fantasy Adventure
Looking for something a little more advanced with an actual playing surface? What if you want to play solo? Peter Piper has got you covered.
Dungeons, Dice & Danger is a fantasy adventure where you roll black and white colored dice, explore dungeons, and fight monsters. Gameplay villains include animals, dinosaurs, pyramids, and even cultists (sure, you can leave anytime you want).
Gameplay involves dice rolling, choosing two dice to match pairs, and earning points by clearing rooms, collecting gems, and fighting monsters. A nice feature of this adventure is that other players will make moves and explore their dungeons even if they are not the one who gets to roll.
Gameplay will continue until all the monsters in the dungeon are defeated. These ancient ones can be tough, some with special powers that cause a player to lose health and possibly die.
The kit comes with five dice and two hundred Adventure sheets (like a player board) which you will use to chart your quests. Variations make it possible to face the dungeons on your own or team up with an additional one to three players.
Things to Know:
- Great Replay Value: There are four levels - each featuring a different pack of displeased denizens.
- Quality: Ravensburger has over a 100-year history of producing quality games
- Fun To Give: This makes a great present for anyone who enjoys gaming - and an especially great gift for the guy who doesn't have any friends (you can only play so much X-box)
- For Everyone: Ideal for solo adventures or campaigns with two to four players ages 12 and up.
Ravensburger Strike: Arena-Based Dice Game for Kids and Adults
Strike is a fast-paced game ideal for two to five players where opponents battle it out gladiator style. This isn't a board game, rather you use the included arena.
Players roll dice and pick up those that show the same number. The remaining dice stay in the arena. Watch out for the X. If it appears you lose that die and it is removed from the game.
Players continue rolling dice until everyone is out of competitors except the victor.
Things To Know:
- Easy To Learn: Strike is easy to learn and with the provided instructions you'll have friends and family in the battle in no time.
- Great Replay Value: Lady Luck makes sure that every match is a little different. With a playtime of 15 minutes, you'll be able to squeeze in a light game or enjoy hours of dice-rolling, number-matching fun!
- Tournament: Want more than a single game? See the included tournament rules to open the gameplay up to more players. Keep score with a character card for each player and add up all the cards at the end of the match.
- Quality: Parents and children have trusted the Ravensburger brand for years.
- What You Get: Twenty-six dice, the battle arena, and easy-to-understand instructions
Dittle Dice Battle: Strategy Dice-Based Game for Two Players
Do you want to play a game with dice, but don't want randomness in gameplay to determine the winner? Then try mixing strategy and checkers-type jumping action into a fun game for two players with Dittle Dice Battle.
Using black and white colored dice, players set up the board with their chosen color closest to them and take turns moving the dice across the board to their opponent's home row.
Tilting dice forward and side to side changes the value on the top of the die and allows you to move your die to its destination. The goal is to move all of your dice to your opponent's home row with the highest total value you can score.
Determine your victory points by adding up your home row scores and see who won.
Things To Know:
Great Replay Value: Just like chess or checkers, each game is different and involves strategy. You might be using dice but luck has nothing to do with the outcome.
- Simple but Strategic: The rules are simple and the game is easy to learn. Don't be fooled, however, it takes strategy to win.
- Great for Players Ages 6 Through Adult: Anyone can learn the rules. This is a great way for individuals of any age to develop strategic thinking while having fun.
- Stylish and Attractive: You don't need to put Dittle Dice Battle back into the box. Leave it right there on your desk or coffee table. It will add to your decor and be ready anytime you need it.
Yahtzee
For Peter Piper, Yahtzee is THE classic dice game. Each turn a player uses five dice and over three dice rolls will scores points by creating different combinations of values such as three-of-a-kind, four-of-a-kind, full house, small straight, large straight, and a Yahtzee (five of a kind).
The combinations and scoring are very easy to understand and are indicated on the provided scorecards. it is a rather simple game, but since the dice determine the outcome, you need to be smart about how you proceed.
But remember, luck is only part of the game. Use strategy to determine how many dice you want to roll without jeopardizing your combination and what the best dice result would be.
Things to Know:
- Great Replay Value: Every game is different and since it involves sturdy dice and simple scorecards (use a pencil so it is easy to erase) you can play over and over again!
- Fun Solo Game: Great for two or more players, this is also one of those games that you can easily enjoy solo. The element of chance along with strategy can be very challenging for a single player who wants to beat his or her best score.
- Inexpensive: You can't beat the value considering the hours of fun you, your family, and your friends will have.
- Convenient: Five dice, a shaker, and scorecards do not take up a lot of room. Throw Yahtzee in your coffee table drawer, backpack, travel kit, or any place you want to keep it handy.
CATAN Dice Game: Civilization-Building Strategy Game
Are you a fan of Settlers of CATAN are looking for a new way to enjoy this favorite game? Maybe something a little faster with some pared-down rules? Or are you looking to find a quick and easy way to get into the world of Settlers of CATAN? Either way, this civilization-building strategy dice game is for you.
Players take turns rolling resource dice to build roads, settlements, knights, and cities while tracking their progress on island game sheets. The goal is to have the most points when the game ends after 15 turns.
The rules are simpler than the original game and the use of the game sheets negates the need for a larger board with lots of game pieces. This makes the game very portable and allows for gameplay while on the go.
Things to Know:
- Great for Everyone: Perfect for one to four players aged 7 and older. 15-30 minute games allow you to complete play in one sitting. If you want something a little longer, try a tournament or best out of three.
- Great Replay Value: CATAN Dice can be played over and over. Each game is different as your resources are determined by the luck of the roll. Be sure to use a pencil so you can reuse your island sheets. Did we mention there are two scenarios? No, well read on!
- Two Scenarios: The island cards are double sided so you can enjoy two different versions. The second scenario's basic premise of gaining resources and developing the island is the same as the first, but the winner is determined by who gathers the most points from settlements and cities (as opposed to scoring the most points after 15 turns). Other rule variations will require you to adjust your strategy!
- Solo Option: Can you play CATAN Dice alone? You bet! The rules are the same, but instead of outscoring your opponents, you'll be playing against capricious Lady Luck and your previous high score. Of course, if more players come along have them join the fun.
- Portable: Easily portable, you can take this activity with you anywhere at any time. Great for travel, camping, or spending time at home with friends and family.
- Luck Meets Strategy: The dice will determine your resources, but how you use them and maximize your builds is entirely up to you and your expertise in developing the island.
Best Dice Games FAQs
Peter Piper has compiled a list of questions that you might have in general about dice games and the products we have recommended here. There are different dice games for different personalities and many dice games (well, probably most dice games) appeal to most game players.
How Long Have People Played Dice Games?
Dice have been around for thousands of years, with the oldest known dice dating back to ancient Egypt and China. Depending on where you live, you might call them cubes or bones; but no matter what you call them, dice games are popular all over the world.
When Was Yahtzee First Released
From 1956 until 1973 Yahtzee was marketed by the E.S. Lowe Company. Milton Bradley purchased the product in 1973 including the rights to sell it. It is estimated that 50 million Yahtzee games are sold each year.
What Is The Basis For the CATAN Dice Game?
The game is based on the original Settlers of CATAN, which was published in Germany in 1995. The game went on to be a huge success worldwide and spawned numerous spin-offs and expansions over the years.
How Popular Are Dice Games?
Dice games are some of the most popular games in general and it's not surprising considering how easy they are to learn and play. Accommodating 1 to many players, being generally portable, and being lower in cost make them favorites of families and gamers worldwide.
Are Dice Games Only About Luck?
Usually not! There is nothing especially enjoyable about watching a random number of dots appear on a square. Luck is part of the game, but the art of play and strategy is what makes the game enjoyable and exciting.
What makes playing board games and dice games so enjoyable?
Both board games and those using dice are so enjoyable because they offer an opportunity for social interaction, competition, problem-solving, and a sense of accomplishment. They can be played with just two people or in groups of any size which increases the fun factor.
At what age can children begin to enjoy playing dice games?
Generally, children can start to play these games from age 3. As the child grows older, more complex rules and strategies can be introduced. However, it is always best to supervise young children while they are playing as they might not understand the consequences of some decisions or might not be aware of how different strategies work yet.
How does the adrenaline rush of a fast-paced dice game affect players?
A fast-paced dice game can provide an exciting and intense experience, often inducing an adrenaline rush in players. This can be beneficial in that it boosts concentration and focus, allowing for more strategic moves.
However, too much adrenaline can cause overstimulation and cloud judgment, resulting in hasty decisions that may not always work out well.
What special abilities do the dice in CATAN Dice have that make them different from other dice games?
The dice in Settlers of CATAN have unique abilities in that each face is marked with a different resource. There are six resources in the game – brick, lumber, grain, wool, ore, and gold. Each resource is used differently.
What is the special ability of the X die in Strike?
When players roll the X dice while playing Strike, that die is removed from the game. At the very minimum, it means that the player is down one of his or her assets.
In addition, dice rolls that result in an X mean there is one less opportunity to match another die in the arena and take both for your team.
What do I do when there is an empty arena on my turn?
When the Strike arena is empty and it is your turn you will roll all of your dice. Have nine dice in your hand, throw them all into the arena's center pot, and hope for the best!
Is there any special dice version needed for play?
While most dice games use standard six-sided dice, the colors, sizes, and markings are unique to each recommendation except Yahztee which is played with regular dice.
What is Dice Forge?
Dice Forge is a board game that combines dice rolling and deck-building mechanics. Players take on the roles of mythological heroes and roll dice to earn resources, which they can use to upgrade their dice by replacing their faces with more powerful ones.
In this pursuit, dice ARE the game. Peter Piper hopes to post a review of this game soon.
Conclusion
The best dice games are not only alternatives to board games, they can provide an exciting and fun way to pass the time, especially when playing with family or friends.
With so many different types of dice challenges available, there is something for everyone; from classic Yahtzee to more complex CATAN Dice, each offers its own unique set of rules and strategies.
Whether you are looking for some lighthearted entertainment or an intense challenge, there's sure to be a dice game out there perfect for your needs!