Objective of the Game
The goal of Rolling Japan is to fill in as many numbers as possible on a map while adhering to adjacent area rules. At the game's end, you count the fields you couldn't fill in correctly ("gaps"), and the player with the fewest gaps wins.
Game Components
- Each player receives a map of Japan divided into numbered regions.
- A set of seven colored dice, each with one of six colors (red, yellow, green, blue, purple, orange) with numbers 1 to 6 on each die.
- Two joker tokens per player.
Gameplay
- Setup:
- Each player gets their own map and two jokers.
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The dice are prepared for play.
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Round Overview:
- The game is played over 8 rounds.
- In each round, six colored dice (out of the seven available) are rolled.
- The rolled numbers and their colors are announced for all players to hear.
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Each player must write the number in a field of the corresponding color in their region.
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Entry Rules:
- Each number you enter must be chosen so that it deviates by a maximum of 1 from all numbers in adjacent fields. For instance, if an adjacent field contains a 4, you can only enter numbers 3, 4, or 5.
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Do not fill in a number if you can't meet this rule. This leads to a gap.
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Using Jokers:
- Jokers allow you to ignore the number already entered and write any number in a field of your choice without color restrictions.
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Jokers can be used only once.
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End of the Game:
- After 8 rounds, all players count their gaps on the map.
- The player with the fewest gaps wins the game.
Strategies and Tips
- Planning: Try to think ahead and leave fields that offer flexibility open.
- Use Jokers Wisely: Since jokers significantly influence the game, use them strategically, especially in critical situations.
- Pay Attention to Dice Results: Since dice luck is a factor, weigh risks and time your joker use to give you the best advantage.