Zombie Dice! A Hilariously Gross Game of Brain Eating and Risk-Taking

Looking for a party game that will have you rolling with laughter (and maybe a little bit of disgust)? Look no further than Zombie Dice, a delightfully macabre dice-rolling game perfect for gatherings of friends and family. This quirky title from Steve Jackson Games pits players against each other in a quest for the most delectable brains, all while navigating the treacherous pitfalls of shotgun blasts and “Foamy Mouth” zombies.

The Bite-Sized Basics: How to Play Zombie Dice

Zombie Dice is deceptively simple to learn, making it accessible to gamers of all experience levels. The objective? To be the player with the most brain points at the end of the game.

Each turn begins with a player rolling a set of three dice (from a pool of thirteen) hidden within a wickedly charming skull-shaped cup. These aren’t your average six-sided dice; they feature three distinct symbols: brains, footprints, and shotguns.

Brains: Represent the sweet reward of devouring zombie minds – each brain scored is worth one point!
Footprints: Indicate that the zombie you’re encountering has fled – this means no brains for you, but also no risk!
Shotguns: Uh oh, the survivors are fighting back. Each shotgun symbol you roll results in a lost turn and forces you to pass the dice to the next player.

The strategic element comes into play when deciding which dice to keep and which to re-roll. Players can choose to bank their brains at any point during their turn, but they risk losing it all if they roll too many shotguns!

Strategic Fleshing Out: Mastering Zombie Dice Tactics

While luck plays a role in rolling the right combinations, successful zombie hunters in Zombie Dice employ a dash of cunning strategy. Experienced players will weigh the potential risks and rewards before each roll. Do you push your luck for more brains or play it safe and secure your points?

Here are some tactical considerations to keep in mind:

Early Game Aggression: In the initial rounds, rolling aggressively for brains can help you establish an early lead.
Mid-Game Balancing: As the game progresses, start balancing risk with reward. Secure your points when you have a good number of brains and avoid chasing every potential brain roll.
End-Game Precision: As players approach the final round, every point counts. Play conservatively and prioritize banking those precious brains over risky rolls.

A Feast for the Eyes: Production Value and Appeal

Zombie Dice isn’t just about the gameplay – it boasts charming production values that enhance the overall experience.

The dice themselves are beautifully crafted with vibrant, detailed artwork featuring iconic zombie imagery. The skull-shaped cup adds a playful touch, making each roll feel like you’re reaching into a horde of undead heads. The game also includes a simple yet effective scorecard to track players’ progress and add a competitive edge.

Zombie Dice’s compact size and straightforward rules make it incredibly portable and perfect for on-the-go gaming sessions. It’s an ideal choice for gatherings, picnics, or even a quick diversion during a coffee break.

Beyond the Bite: Expansions and Variations

If you find yourself craving more zombie-fueled fun, Zombie Dice offers some exciting expansions to spice up the gameplay:

Zombie Dice 2: The Second Helping: This expansion introduces new dice with unique symbols, including “Hand” dice that allow players to steal brains from their opponents.
Zombie Dice: Santa’s Little Helper (Promotional): This festive edition features Christmas-themed zombie dice and adds a holiday twist to the brain-eating frenzy.

Zombie Dice isn’t just a game; it’s an experience that combines strategic decision-making with a healthy dose of morbid humor. Its simple rules, quick playtime, and captivating theme make it a crowd-pleaser for gamers of all ages and experience levels. So gather your friends, roll the dice, and prepare to feast on some deliciously grotesque fun!