Perudo (1800) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Perudo, also known as Liar’s Dice, is a game of bluffing and deception that has been played for centuries in various cultures around the world. The game’s origins can be traced back to South America, where it was popular among the Inca empire. It was later brought to Spain and Europe by Spanish conquistadors, where it gained popularity among noble families and eventually spread to other parts of the world.

Game Components of Perudo

30 dice

6 cups

1 cup lid

Each player starts with 5 dice of the same color.

How To Setup Perudo

To set up Perudo, each player rolls one die to determine who goes first; the player with the highest number starts. Each player then places their 5 dice in their colored cup and shakes them, keeping the dice hidden from other players. The first player takes a secret look at their dice and makes an opening bid.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics:
– Secret dice rolling
– Bidding and bluffing
– Probability and strategy
– Use of wild dice (ones, or “aces”).

Game Objective:
– Be the last player with any dice.
– Bidding involves estimating the total number of a specific die value (including aces) under all cups.
– Players can raise the bid or call “dudo” (I doubt) to challenge the previous bid.
– If a player loses a challenge, they lose a die; otherwise, the challenger loses a die.
– Special rules apply when a player is down to one die (palafico), restricting bid changes and removing the wild status of aces.

Player Experience

Playing Perudo is a dynamic mix of calculating probabilities and navigating the psychological landscape of bluffing. Each bid is not just about the numbers but about influencing the next player’s decision, making it a game of strategic manipulation. The game demands attention to detail and a healthy dose of skepticism, as players must balance raising bids and challenging others without risking their own dice.

Pros

Engaging Strategy: Combines mathematical probability with psychological bluffing.

Quick Rounds: Individual rounds are fast-paced, although the game can drag with larger player counts.

High Replayability: Each game is unique due to the randomness of dice rolls and player interactions.

Social Interaction: Encourages player engagement and banter.

Cons

Complex Rules: Initial learning curve due to special conditions like palafico and calza.

Longer Games with More Players: The game can become lengthy and less engaging for players who are knocked out early.

Unwinnable Positions: Certain mechanics can put a player in an unwinnable situation, which can be frustrating.

Personal Thoughts on Perudo

Perudo is ideal for those who enjoy games that blend strategy with social interaction. It’s perfect for fans of poker-like games where bluffing and reading opponents are key. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer straightforward, rules-light games or who get frustrated with games that can sometimes feel unfair due to certain mechanics. Overall, Perudo offers a unique and engaging gaming experience that challenges both your mathematical skills and your ability to read people.

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.