Sachsenkniffel
Objective
The objective of Sachsenkniffel is to score the most points by strategically combining dice results. The game is played over several rounds and ends when all categories on the score sheet are filled. The aim is to achieve the highest possible score.
Game Components
- 5 Dice
- One score sheet per player
- One pencil per player
Setup
- Each player receives a score sheet and a pencil.
- Players agree on a turn order for rolling the dice.
Gameplay
The game is played in rounds, with players taking turns rolling the dice. Each player has up to three rolls per turn:
- First roll: The player rolls all five dice.
- Second and third rolls: The player can set aside any dice they want to keep and reroll the rest of the dice. This may be repeated up to two additional times, so each player has a maximum of three rolls in total per round.
Recording the Results
After the rolls, the player selects a category on their score sheet and records the score.
Categories on the Score Sheet
- Ones to Sixes: Sum of the dice showing that number.
- Three of a Kind: At least three dice showing the same number; sum all dice.
- Four of a Kind: At least four dice showing the same number; sum all dice.
- Full House: Three of one number and two of another (e.g., three 4s and two 2s); scores 25 points.
- Small Straight: Any four consecutive numbers (e.g., 1-2-3-4); scores 30 points.
- Large Straight: Any five consecutive numbers (e.g., 2-3-4-5-6); scores 40 points.
- Yahtzee (Kniffel): All five dice the same; scores 50 points.
- Chance: Any combination of numbers; sum all the dice.
Bonus
A bonus of 35 points is awarded if the sum of the upper section (Ones to Sixes) is at least 63.
End of the Game
The game ends when all players have filled in all sections of their score sheets. The player with the highest total score wins.
Strategic Tips
- Aim to fill "Ones to Sixes" early to reach the bonus points of 35 quickly.
- Reserve the "Chance" field until the end to manage any undesirable dice results.
- Prioritize "Yahtzee (Kniffel)" and "Four of a Kind" due to their high point potential.
Have fun playing Sachsenkniffel!