Objective of the Game
The objective of Schebbeln is to tactically bluff your opponents into doubting the highest dice roll or to roll the highest number yourself, therefore quickly getting rid of all your matches or similar items.
Number of Players and Materials
- Number of Players: 3 to any larger group (typically 3-10)
- Materials:
- Two dice
- One cup
- Small sticks or matches to represent penalty points (approx. 10 per player)
Basic Rules
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Starting the Game: Each player is given an equal number of matches (e.g., 10).
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Starting a Round: A player begins by shaking both dice secretly in the cup, looks at the rolled number, and challenges the next player. The player can state the actual rolled number or bluff.
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Number Combination: When announcing, always state the highest number first (e.g., dice show 3 and 4, then you say 43).
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Challenges: The next player can believe the announced number and roll for a number equal to or higher. Alternatively, they may doubt the announced number:
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Doubt: If the number is doubted, the challenger checks the dice. If the announcement was correct, the doubter receives a match; if the announcement was false, the announcer receives a match.
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New Round High: If a player rolls the highest possible number, a pair, or a “Mäxchen” (21, with one die showing 1 and the other 2), they may double the stakes, increasing game tension.
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Winning Condition: The game ends when a player has rid themselves of all matches. The other players continue until their loss.
Tactical Hints
- Bluffing: Is crucial in this game. Well-set bluffs can deceive opponents into doubting, thus accumulating penalty points themselves.
- Psychology: Understanding and predicting other players' bluffing behavior can be an advantage.
- Strategic Risk: The risk of betting almost every roll can easily backfire.
Summary
Schebbeln is an exciting bluffing game with elements of luck, requiring good gut feeling and analysis of the co-players. It is excellent as a party game because it is quick to learn and great fun.
