Kismet (1963) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Kismet is a classic dice game that was first released in in 1963. It is a two-player game designed for players aged 7 and up. The game is published by Endless Games and falls under the category of dice games, specifically roll-and-write games. The game is known for its simple rules and quick gameplay, making it a popular choice for families and casual gamers.

Game Components of Kismet

Dice: Five six-sided dice with colored pips (black, red, and green)

Scorecard: A score sheet divided into two sections: Basic and Kismet

Dice Cup: Included in some versions

Scorepad Sheets: For tracking scores

How To Setup Kismet

To set up Kismet, each player receives a scorecard. The game includes a dice cup, though it is not essential. Players start by rolling the five colored dice to begin their turn.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Rolling Dice: Players roll the dice up to three times per turn.

Selecting Dice: Choose which dice to keep and which to re-roll.

Scoring Categories: Fill in one scoring category per turn on the scorecard.

Basic Section: Includes standard categories like pairs, triples, and fours.

Kismet Section: Includes color-based categories like Two Pair of the Same Color, Flush, and Full House of the Same Color.

Kismet Rule: Rolling a second Kismet forces other players to score a zero in their next available category.

Game End: The game ends when all players have filled their scorecards; the player with the highest score wins.

Player Experience

Kismet offers a blend of luck, strategy, and simplicity, making it easy to learn and play. The addition of colored dice introduces unique scoring categories that differentiate it from Yahtzee. Players must strategically decide which dice to keep and which to re-roll, balancing the need to score in various categories with the risk of not achieving desired combinations.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

Unique Color-Based Categories: Adds a fresh twist to the traditional dice-rolling game.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to make thoughtful decisions about which dice to keep and re-roll.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for a wide range of ages.

Cons

Luck-Dependent: Outcomes are heavily influenced by the roll of the dice.

Component Quality Variance: Different versions may have varying dice quality, with some prone to color fading.

Limited Originality: The game does not significantly innovate beyond Yahtzee.

Personal Thoughts on Kismet

Kismet is an excellent option for those who enjoy Yahtzee but are looking for a variation with unique twists. It is ideal for families or casual game nights, offering a mix of strategy and luck that keeps the game engaging. While it may not be as widely recognized as Yahtzee, Kismet’s distinctive features make it a worthwhile addition to any board game collection.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.