Kismet (1997) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Kismet is a classic dice game that was first released in in 1997. It is designed by Franz Vohwinkel and published by ABACUSSPIELE. The game is suitable for players aged 8 and above and can accommodate 3 to 8 players, making it a great option for larger groups.

Game Components of Kismet

5 tri-colored dice

1 dice cup

1 score pad

1 pencil

Instructions

How To Setup Kismet

To set up Kismet, each player receives a score sheet. The score sheet is divided into two sections: the basic section and the Kismet section. Players take turns rolling the five tri-colored dice, aiming to fill in the scoring slots on their sheet. The dice cup is used to shake and roll the dice.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Rolling Dice: Players roll five tri-colored dice.

Scoring: Score points based on combinations rolled, with higher scores in the Kismet section.

Strategy: Decide which dice to keep and which to reroll to fill scoring slots.

Penalty: If a player rolls a second Kismet (five matching dice), other players must mark a zero in the uppermost available slot on their score sheet.

Objective: Fill the score sheet with the highest possible scores.

Player Experience

Playing Kismet involves a mix of luck and strategy. Players must make tactical decisions about which dice to keep and which to reroll, balancing the need to fill high-scoring slots with the risk of losing potential scores. The game is engaging and competitive, especially with the penalty mechanism that can significantly impact other players.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: The use of tri-colored dice adds a different dimension compared to other dice games.

Family Friendly: Suitable for a wide age range, making it a great game for family gatherings.

Simple to Learn: Easy to understand and start playing quickly.

Strategic Depth: Requires tactical thinking to maximize scores.

Cons

Dependence on Special Dice: Unlike Yahtzee, Kismet requires the specific tri-colored dice, which can be a drawback if lost or misplaced.

Limited Availability: The game has faded from mainstream popularity and may be harder to find.

Penalty Mechanism: While exciting, the penalty for other players when someone rolls a second Kismet can be frustrating.

Personal Thoughts on Kismet

Kismet is an excellent choice for families and groups looking for a fun, engaging dice game with a unique twist. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy games that combine luck with strategic decision-making. While it may not be as widely available as Yahtzee, Kismet offers a refreshing alternative for those seeking something a bit different.

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