High Score is a dice game released in 2021 designed by Bluguy Grafikdesign and Sensit Communication GmbH. It is a game for 2-5 players, with a recommended player count of
The game falls under the category of dice games and features mechanics such as dice rolling and push your luck.Game Components of High Score
7 six-sided dice with numbers 1-5 and a “vortex” symbol21 challenge cardsScore track boardPlayer score markers and wooden cubesRulebook
How To Setup High Score
To set up High Score, shuffle the deck of 21 challenge cards and create a face-down deck of 7 cards. Each player selects a player color and places their score marker chit on the score track board, along with a wooden cube in the center. The initial start player is chosen randomly.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Dice Rolling: Players roll the seven dice, each featuring numbers 1-5 and a “vortex” symbol.Challenge Cards: Each round, a new challenge card is revealed, dictating the rules for that round, including the value of the vortex symbol, which dice can be rerolled, and how points are scored.Scoring: Players take turns rolling the dice, deciding whether to reroll, and aiming to achieve the highest score based on the challenge card’s criteria.Medals: The highest scorer in each round earns a gold medal (3 points), the next highest earns a silver medal (2 points), and the third highest earns a bronze medal (1 point).Game Objective: The player with the most points from the medals after seven rounds wins the game.
Player Experience
High Score combines the luck of dice rolling with strategic decision-making, thanks to the ever-changing rules provided by the challenge cards. Each round presents a new challenge, keeping the game dynamic and engaging. Players must balance the risk of rerolling dice with the potential rewards, making it a game that requires both luck and strategy.
Pros
Dynamic Gameplay: The constant change in rules keeps the game fresh and exciting.Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, the game offers plenty of opportunities for strategic decisions.Portable: The game comes in a small, EXIT-sized box, making it easy to carry and store.Easy to Learn: The rules are simple, and the game can be taught quickly.Variety: The 21 challenge cards provide a lot of variability, ensuring no two games are the same.
Cons
Luck Dependency: The game is heavily influenced by dice rolls, which may not appeal to players seeking pure strategy.Limited Player Count: While the game supports 2-5 players, it is recommended to play with a lower player count for a more snappy experience.Simple Production: The game’s components are minimal and not particularly visually appealing.
Personal Thoughts on High Score
High Score is an excellent addition to any game collection for fans of dice games and those who enjoy a mix of luck and strategy. It is particularly suited for family game nights or casual gatherings, as it is easy to learn and play. Reiner Knizia’s design ensures that while the game is simple, it offers enough depth to keep players engaged and strategizing. If you enjoy games like Yahtzee or Farkle but are looking for something with more strategic layers, High Score is definitely worth checking out.
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