How to Play Yardzee

Two children playing a game on grass with red wooden blocks and a brown bucket outside, with a house and trees in the background.

Objective:
The goal of Yardzee is to score the most points by rolling five dice and creating specific combinations, similar to the classic dice game Yahtzee.

Instructions:

Setup:

  • Each player gets a scorecard to track their points.

  • Place the five large dice in a bucket or container for rolling.

  • Ensure there is space in your yard or outdoor area to roll the dice safely.

Taking Turns:

  • Players take turns rolling all five dice.

  • After the first roll, players can choose to keep some dice and re-roll the rest, up to two additional times, for a total of three rolls per turn.

  • After the final roll, players must select a scoring category on their scorecard and record their points for that turn.

Scoring:

  • Points are awarded based on specific combinations, including:

    • Ones to Sixes: Score the sum of the dice showing that number.

    • Three of a Kind: Score the total of all dice if three are the same.

    • Four of a Kind: Score the total of all dice if four are the same.

    • Full House: 25 points for three of one number and two of another.

    • Small Straight: 30 points for four consecutive numbers (e.g., 1-2-3-4).

    • Large Straight: 40 points for five consecutive numbers (e.g., 2-3-4-5-6).

    • Yardzee: 50 points for rolling five of the same number.

    • Chance: Score the total of all dice; use this as a backup category.

Winning the Game:

  • Once all players have completed their scorecards, tally the points.

  • The player with the highest total wins the game.

Game Tips:

  • Be strategic with your re-rolls to maximize your chances of high-scoring combinations.

  • Use the "Chance" category wisely when you can't score in other categories.

Enjoy this oversized twist on the classic dice game and make it the highlight of your outdoor event!