Dice

Kismet

Roll colored dice and outwit your opponent with strategic color-matching combos in this fast-paced Yahtzee variant. Quick 20-minute duels with bonus twists keep every round unpredictable.

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2 players
20-30 min
Easy

What You'll Need

🎲 Kismet dice set
📦 Scoresheet

About This Game

Yahtzee variant with colored dice. Same-color combinations score bonus points.

How to Play

  1. Similar to Yahtzee but with colored dice (2 each of 3 colors)
  2. Roll 5 dice, re-roll up to 2 times
  3. Score in categories that include standard ones plus color-based bonuses:
  • Same-color pairs score higher than mixed
  • Kismet (5 of a kind same color): 100 points
  • Yarborough (no pairs): score as is
  1. Color matching adds strategic depth
  2. 15 scoring categories per game
  3. Basic section bonus at 63+ points
  4. Highest total score wins

History & Background

Kismet emerged as a modern evolution of Yahtzee, the iconic dice game created by Edwin S. Lowe in 1956. While Yahtzee dominated casual gaming for decades with its straightforward number-matching mechanics, game designers sought to inject fresh strategic elements into the formula. Kismet introduced colored dice as a revolutionary twist, transforming what had been purely numerical optimization into a game requiring both probability calculation and color-awareness tactics. This innovation proved particularly effective for two-player formats, where the reduced player count intensifies competition and makes color-blocking strategies more impactful. The game's inclusion of color-based bonuses—particularly the coveted "Kismet" achievement of five same-colored dice worth 100 points—created memorable high-stakes moments that distinguished it from its predecessor. Kismet gained traction among modern board gamers who appreciated its blend of classic accessibility and contemporary strategic depth. The game respects the traditions established by Yahtzee while offering meaningful decisions beyond simple dice luck, making it appealing to players seeking quick but intellectually engaging competitions. Its 20-30 minute playtime makes it ideal for head-to-head matchups, where direct competition heightens tension and celebration alike.

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Rules & How to Play

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Background

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you play Kismet with 2 players?

Yes! Kismet is an excellent choice for 2 players — in fact, it's designed specifically for a duo. You'll get the full experience without any compromises.

How long does Kismet take to play?

A typical game of Kismet takes about 20-30 min. This can vary based on players' experience level and how quickly decisions are made.

What do you need to play Kismet?

To play Kismet, you need: Kismet dice set, and Scoresheet.

Added 2 months ago • Updated about 1 month ago
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