Shut the Box
Roll 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.
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What You'll Need
About This Game
A classic pub game where players roll dice and flip down numbered tiles. Lower your total as much as possible - ideally 'shutting the box' by flipping all tiles.
How to Play
- Box has tiles numbered 1-9 (or 1-12)
- All tiles start face-up
- Roll two dice (one die if sum of remaining tiles is 6 or less)
- Flip down any combination of tiles that equals your roll
- Continue rolling and flipping until you can't use the roll
- Score = sum of remaining face-up tiles (lower is better)
- 'Shutting the box' (all tiles down) = 0 points, automatic win
- Players alternate turns; lowest cumulative score wins
- Variant: Eliminate players who exceed a point threshold
Where to Buy
History & Background
Shut the Box originated in 12th century Normandy, France. Sailors and fishermen played it in ports and on ships, as the game was compact and could be played in the confined quarters of a vessel.
The game spread along trade routes to England's Channel Islands, where it became known as "Canoga." Each region developed its own rules and scoring variants. In Barrois, France, it was called "Jeu de la Fermeture."
Shut the Box was traditionally played in pubs and taverns, where the wooden box could be kept behind the bar. The loser often bought the next round of drinks, making it a social gambling game.
The game remains popular today, particularly in British pubs and as a family game. Its simple rules and quick play make it suitable for all ages, while the probability and strategy involved keep it interesting for adults. Modern versions often feature felt-lined boxes and quality wooden tiles.
Learn More
BoardGameGeek
1 linkRules & How to Play
1 linkVideos
1 linkBackground
1 linkFrequently Asked Questions
Can you play Shut the Box with 2 players?
Yes, Shut the Box can be played with 2 players. It's a great choice for couples and pairs.
How long does Shut the Box take to play?
A typical game of Shut the Box takes about 10-20 minutes. This can vary based on players' experience level and how quickly decisions are made.
What do you need to play Shut the Box?
To play Shut the Box, you need: Shut the Box game (or tiles numbered 1-9), and 2 dice.
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