Dizzle (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Dizzle is a dice-based board game designed by Anne Pätzke and published by Schmidt Spiele in in 2019. The game combines elements of dice rolling, open drafting, and paper-and-pencil mechanics to create a unique gameplay experience. With a runtime of 30 minutes and suitable for players aged 8 and above, Dizzle has garnered attention for its simplicity and strategic depth.

Game Components of Dizzle

13 black dice

Four black markers

Multiple scoring sheets with varying levels of difficulty (four levels)

Pre-printed X’s and square boxes on the scoring sheets showing die values and icons

How To Setup Dizzle

To set up Dizzle, each player receives a scoring sheet, and the dice are placed in the center of the table. The number of dice rolled varies by the number of players. The first player rolls the dice and separates them by value. Players then take turns selecting a die and placing it on their scoring sheet according to the placement rules.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Rolling and Drafting: Players take turns selecting dice from the center of the table and placing them on their scoring sheets.

Placement Rules: The first die must be placed adjacent to an X, and subsequent dice must be placed adjacent to already placed dice.

Rerolling: Players can reroll all available dice at the start of their turn if they prefer different values.

Dropping Out: Players can choose to drop out of the current turn, avoiding the risk or reward of rerolling.

Locks and Keys: On higher levels, locks can only be marked off if the key was previously marked.

Bombs: Marking a bomb causes other players’ bombs to explode, resulting in negative points.

Rockets and Planets: Rockets allow players to mark off planet squares on unconnected islands.

Flags and Brown Fields: Flags give points based on the order players mark them, and Brown Fields give negative points but offer strategic placement opportunities.

Objective: The goal is to score the most victory points by marking off spaces on the scoring sheet according to the scoring criteria.

Player Experience

Dizzle offers a dynamic and interactive experience, with each level introducing new challenges and strategies. Players must make meaningful decisions about which dice to select and when to reroll or drop out. The game encourages strategic thinking, especially as players navigate the more complex levels with locks, bombs, and rockets. The drafting mechanism ensures continuous player interaction, making the game feel fresh and engaging.

Pros

Variety and Challenge: Four different levels of scoring sheets provide increasing difficulty and new twists.

Strategic Depth: Each die selection is a meaningful decision, requiring players to think ahead.

Player Interaction: Drafting from a shared pool creates a high level of player interaction.

Simple to Learn: Despite the depth, the game is relatively simple to teach and understand.

Cons

Limited Discovery Element: After playing all levels several times, the discovery element diminishes.

Desire for More Levels: Players may wish for additional levels beyond the four provided.

Personal Thoughts on Dizzle

Dizzle is an excellent choice for fans of roll-and-write and drafting games. It offers a unique blend of strategy and luck, making it appealing to both casual and experienced gamers. The game’s increasing difficulty levels ensure it remains engaging as players progress. While it may lose some of its charm after multiple plays through all levels, the core mechanics and interaction keep it a go-to game for many groups. If you’re looking for a game that combines simplicity with strategic depth, Dizzle is definitely worth considering.

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