Dice Academy (2019) Board Game

Dice Academy is a word game designed by Yannick Gobert and published by Blue Orange in in 2019. It is a fun and fast-paced game that combines dice rolling and word building. The game is suitable for 2 to 6 players, with a recommended age of 8 and up.

Game Components of Dice Academy

5 ‘letters’ dice (5 different colors)

5 ‘themes’ dice (5 different colors)

Scorekeeping method (optional notepad or personal memory)

How To Setup Dice Academy

To set up the game, remove the dice from the box for easy rolling. Players decide together on the number of points to play for: 10 points for a quick game, 20 points for a small challenge, or 30 points for a normal competitive game. Choose a player to roll first, and ensure everyone has a way to keep track of their score.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics:
– Roll dice in successive rounds.
– Identify themes and letters.
– Pair letters with themes to form words.

Game Objective:
– Be the first player to reach the chosen number of points.
– Each pair correctly matched earns 1 point.
– A player must declare their word loudly and take the corresponding dice.
– Mistakes result in returning the dice and temporary exclusion from the game.

Player Experience

Dice Academy is a dynamic game suitable for 2-6 players aged 8 and above. A typical game lasts around 15 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick, engaging session. Players take turns rolling the dice, racing to come up with words that match the rolled themes and letters. The game’s fast-paced nature keeps players on their toes, requiring quick thinking and linguistic agility.

Pros

Portable: The game comes in a compact box with a magnetic fastening, ideal for travel.

Fast-paced: Games are short and energizing, lasting about 15 minutes.

Educational: Enhances vocabulary and thinking skills.

Social: Encourages interaction and competition among players.

Cons

Complex Rules: The initial setup and rules can be a bit confusing for younger players.

Luck Element: The roll of the dice introduces an element of luck, which might not appeal to players seeking pure strategy.

Limited Replayability: The themes and letters can become familiar after several plays, potentially reducing the challenge over time.

Personal Thoughts on Dice Academy

Dice Academy is perfect for families, school groups, or anyone looking for a quick and intellectually stimulating game. It is particularly suitable for children aged 8 and above, helping to improve their vocabulary and thinking skills in a fun and competitive environment. For adults, it serves as a great icebreaker or a quick mental exercise during social gatherings. However, players seeking games with deeper strategy or longer play sessions might find Dice Academy a bit too light.

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