Shut The Box is a simple dice game that is easy-to-learn and easy-to-play. Roll the right numbers to shut the box!
Find the video tutorial and written explanation for how to play the dice game shut the box below.
Shut The Box Tutorial
Needed
Any number of players; Shut The Box dice game board with (2) six-sided dice, piece of paper for scoring
Objective
The object of the game is to shut, or lower, as many number tiles as possible during your turn.
Game Play
A round begins with all the tiles in the up position. The first player will roll two dice and add them up. The player will then lower an equal amount of tiles.
For example, if the player rolls a total of 9, they can lower any number combinations of tiles equal to 9.
9
8 and 1
7 and 2
6 and 3
5 and 4
6, 2, and 1
4, 3, and 2
The first player continues to roll as long as they has an equal number of tiles to lower. When no more tiles can be lowered, it is the end of a player's turn.
Play moves to the next player. All the tiles are returned to the up position before the next player's first roll.
Score
A player scores the amount of tiles still left up at the end of a turn. Once a player’s score is recorded, the next player begins with all tiles in the up position.
Winning
When a player scores 45 or more points, they are eliminated from the game. The last player still in the game wins!
Shut the Box Rules
Once a player has the 7, 8, and 9 lowered, they may choose to use only a single die, but is not required. (Note: some game variations have tile numbers up to 12)
If a player lowers every tile, it is known as shutting the box, and the player scores no points for that turn.
If all the remaining players go over 45 points in the same round, the player with the lower overall score wins the game.
Head To Head
The game can also be played head to head with two players. In this version of the game,
Player 1 will begin the same way as in the first game play. Once Player 1 is no longer able to lower any more tiles, the turn is over. In this game play, the tiles lowered remain down.
Player 2 begins their turn with the goal of raising the tiles that Player 1 lowered. Player 2 will roll until they are unable to raise any more tiles.
Play moves back to Player 1, who will again try to lower all the tiles.
If Player 1 can lower all the tiles, they win. If Player 2 can get all the tiles raised, they win.
Strategy
Optimal strategy in Shut the Box involves a balance between risk and reward to keep the lowest score.
To maximize your chances of winning with each throw of the dice, start by targeting the highest numbers.
Start by targeting the 9, 8, and 7 since they have fewer combinations that add up to their value.
It is crucial to use your rolls efficiently, aiming to clear these high-value tiles early in the game.
As the game progresses, consider the lower numbers, as they offer more combination of tiles and flexibility.
Additionally, be mindful of when to switch from using both dice to a single die, which can help you continue lowering tiles even when the sum doesn't match any remaining numbers.
Lastly, stay vigilant of your opponents' scores and adapt your strategy accordingly, aiming to keep your total below 45 while trying to force others over that threshold.
By combining thoughtful dice rolling with smart tile selection, you will increase your chances of mastering Shut the Box and emerging as the victor.
Shut the Box is a delightful and engaging dice game that offers a perfect blend of strategy and luck.
Its simplicity makes it accessible to players of all ages, while its potential for strategic choices keeps the game interesting and competitive.
Whether played with a group of friends or in a head-to-head showdown, the objective remains the same: shut as many number tiles as possible while avoiding the dreaded 45-point threshold.
Shut the Box is a great game that always brings a great time for all who play.
So gather your friends, grab a Shut the Box game board and a pair of dice, and embark on a journey filled with excitement and fun.
May your rolls be fortunate, and may you be the last one standing in this traditional dice game of numbers!
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