Midnight
Also known as: 1-4-24
Race to lock in a 1 and 4, then push your luck with remaining dice to outscore your opponent. Quick, tense, and perfectly balanced for head-to-head competition.
Sign in to rate this game
What You'll Need
About This Game
Roll to set aside a 1 and a 4, then score with remaining dice. Highest total wins.
How to Play
**Setup:** Six dice.
**Gameplay:**
- Roll all six dice
- To score, you must first set aside a 1 and a 4 (in any order, over any rolls)
- Once you have a 1 and 4, your remaining four dice count as your score
- You may reroll any non-set-aside dice to improve
- Limited to 6 rolls total
**Winning:** Highest score from remaining four dice wins. Must have 1 and 4 set aside to score.
**Maximum:** Four 6s = 24 points.
History & Background
Midnight is a modern dice game that emerged from the push-your-luck tradition that has captivated players for centuries. The game's mechanics draw inspiration from classic dice games like Pig and Farkle, which popularized the tension between playing it safe and risking everything for a higher score. However, Midnight strips away complexity to create an elegant two-player experience that can be played anywhere with just six dice.
The game gained particular traction among casual gamers and family game enthusiasts who appreciated its simplicity and quick turnaround time. Unlike lengthier strategy games, Midnight delivers complete matches in 10-20 minutes, making it ideal for competitive play between two players who want multiple rounds in a single sitting. The requirement to set aside both a 1 and a 4 before scoring adds a unique twist to traditional push-your-luck mechanics, forcing players to make meaningful decisions about when to lock in their score.
Today, Midnight represents the resurgence of minimalist game design, proving that deep entertainment doesn't require complex rules or expensive components. Its accessibility has made it a favorite among game enthusiasts looking for quick competitive moments, and its balanced luck-versus-skill ratio ensures that victories feel earned rather than random. The game continues to appeal to players who value elegant design and head-to-head competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play Midnight with 2 players?
Yes! Midnight 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 Midnight take to play?
A typical game of Midnight takes about 10-20 min. This can vary based on players' experience level and how quickly decisions are made.
What do you need to play Midnight?
To play Midnight, you need: 6 dice. That's it — no special equipment required.
Similar Games
Yahtzee
DiceRoll, strategize, and outscore your opponent in this fast-paced classic where every decision counts. Push your luck for the perfect combo or play it safe—13 tense rounds determine the winner.
Farkle
DicePush your luck against one opponent in this intense dice duel where every roll could earn you big points or bust completely. One wrong decision separates the winner from the loser.
Liar's Dice
DiceMaster the art of the bluff in this fast-paced dice game where every claim is a calculated risk. With just two players, every decision matters—will you push your luck or call out your opponent's lie?
Craps (Street Version)
DiceRoll the dice and test your nerve in this fast-paced betting game where fortune shifts with every throw. Two players, infinite tension—who'll master the point and claim victory?
Shut the Box
DiceRoll dice, flip tiles, and race to shut the box before your opponent in this fast-paced classic. Pure luck and quick decisions make every 10-minute round thrilling head-to-head competition.
Pig
DiceRisk it all or play it safe in this nail-biting dice game where one bad roll wipes out your winnings. Perfect for two players who love quick, tense decision-making.
Pencil Dice
DiceRoll numbered pencils instead of dice in this fast-paced push-your-luck game where two players race to a target score while deciding when to risk everything.
Aces
DiceRoll dice to pass them away or eliminate them entirely—but watch out, your opponent might pass theirs right back to you. Quick, cutthroat, and perfectly tense for two.
Explore More Games
Discover the most popular two-player games or browse by category.