If you love dice games but don't want to memorize a bunch of rules, then you absolutely have to try the classic Shut the Box game. It's incredibly simple to play, requiring only a few dice and a small wooden box with numbers on it. The rules are quick to learn, but the more you play, the more addictive it becomes! Whether it's a family gathering, a get-together with friends, math training for kids, or just a casual bar night, Shut the Box is sure to liven up the atmosphere and get everyone engaged.
What is Shut the Box？
Shut the Box originated in 18th-century Normandy, England, or in seaside taverns. Originally invented by English fishermen or barkeeps, they would roll dice while enjoying a drink or waiting for the tide, playing the game by flipping small tiles on a wooden box. It was both entertaining and socializing. The game was known as "Canoga" or "Tric-Trac," but later became affectionately known as "Shut the Box" because of the "closing the small door" required.
Simply put, Shut the Box is a dice game that combines luck and strategy. Each round, players roll the dice and close the tiles corresponding to the numbers on the dice. The winner is the player who closes all the tiles or has the lowest score at the end.
What do I need to play Shut the Box？
Want to start a classic and addictive game of Shut the Box? Actually, you don't need too many complicated props; just a few simple items are all you need to get started! 👇
1️⃣ A wooden box with numbers：The core prop for Shut the Box is the wooden box with flip-up numbers. The most common numbers are 1 to 9, though some versions have numbers 1 to 12.
Many foldable Shut the Box boxes are available, making them easy to carry around, perfect for family gatherings, bar nights, or travel.
💡 Alternatives: If you don't have a wooden box, you can also draw a grid of numbers 1 to 9 with pen and paper. Use coins or small pieces of paper to represent the flipped numbers, or use the front and back of playing cards to represent the flipped numbers. The gameplay is exactly the same.
2️⃣ Two standard D6 dice (six-sided dice)：We recommend using standard 16mm Shut the Box D6 dice for durability, clear markings, and smooth rolling.
3️⃣ Number of players: Generally 1-4 players, suitable for solo or multiplayer competitions.
4️⃣ Scoring tool (optional)：You can use pen and paper or your phone to keep track of your scores. The sum of all unclosed numbers is your score. The lower the score, the better. If all closed numbers are "Shut the Box," you win!
How to Play the shut the Box Game？
Learning the rules is simple, and you can get started in just a few minutes. Here are the classic instructions for the shut the box game:
1️⃣ Getting Started：
Open all the numbers on the wooden box from 1 to 9 (standing up or facing up). Players can decide which number to go first by rolling a dice or playing rock-paper-scissors. Then, they take turns rolling the dice and attempting to "shut" a number.
2️⃣ Rolling and Calculating：
Each round, players typically roll two standard D6 dice. After rolling, add the numbers on both dice together to arrive at the target total for the round (e.g., 3+5=8).
Note: When the highest remaining number on the box is 6 or less, many versions use only one dice (instead of two) to speed up the game. This rule is common in many home and bar versions and helps determine which numbers can still be shut.
3️⃣ Closing Numbers (How to Legally "Close" Numbers)：
Players must use the numbers on the box that are still open to create a combination that equals the total of the dice rolled this round, then flip those numbers over (closing them). Details are as follows:
- You can close a single number (if there is a corresponding number).
For example, if the total of two dice is 9 and the 9 is still open, you can close the 9.
- You can close a combination of two or more numbers, as long as the total of those numbers equals the total on the dice.
For example, if the total is 9, you can close:
8 + 1
7 + 2
6 + 3
5 + 3 + 1 (as long as all three numbers are still open)
Key Combination Rules:
Only numbers that have not been closed can be used.
Numbers cannot be used repeatedly in a combination (for example, a "3" space can only be used once, unless there are two "3" spaces on the box).
There's no limit to the number of numbers in a combination (as long as the sum equals the target number and all are open). For example, if you roll a 9, you can use 5+4, 6+2+1, or 3+2+1+3 (the latter is illegal because 3 is used twice, unless there are two 3s in the box).
Priority Strategy: It's generally recommended to close large numbers (such as 9, 8, and 7) first, as they're more difficult to match later. This is a strategy, not a hard and fast rule.
4️⃣ When You Can't Continue：
If, after rolling the dice, there are no remaining open combinations in the box that add up to your total, or you can't close any more legal combinations, the round ends.
Scoring: Add up all the currently open (unclosed) numbers to get your score for the round. The lower the score, the better (the goal is to win with the lowest score or 0). If you successfully close all numbers (no remaining numbers), the round score is 0 (usually considered the best score and can be recorded as "Shut the Box").
5️⃣ Victory Conditions：
In the common Shut the Box game, each player plays 1 to 5 rounds (or any pre-agreed number of rounds), and the player with the lowest cumulative score wins.
Single-Round Victory (Instant): If you successfully close all the numbers on the box before the end of your turn, you immediately "Shut the Box," which is usually considered an automatic win for that round. (If multiple players are competing in turns, this may be recorded as the best score of the round or the game may end immediately, depending on the pre-agreed arrangement.)
Multi-Round Victory: After playing the pre-agreed number of rounds, the scores from all rounds are added up, and the player with the lowest total score wins.
Tie Resolution: If multiple players have the same total score, an extra round or a pre-agreed tie-break (i.e., the player who successfully closes the highest number last wins) may be selected to determine the winner.
Shut the Box 4 Player
Shut the Box can be played solo or with 2-4 players. In the 4-player mode, play becomes even more competitive:
Each player takes a turn rolling the dice, independently closing numbers. At the end of a round, the total of all remaining numbers is recorded. When everyone has finished, the player with the lowest score wins.
To make 4-player mode even more fun, consider offering a small prize for the winner, such as a drink from another player or a "no penalty card." Alternatively, ask the loser to complete a simple task, such as singing a song, telling a joke, or performing a talent show. This reward and punishment system not only adds interactivity to the game but also livens up the atmosphere. Whether it's a family gathering, a party with friends, or a night out at a bar, this fun and lucky-luck-filled dice-rolling game makes every roll worth the wait.
Shut the Box variant rules
While classic Shut the Box has simple rules, its appeal lies in its flexibility. Players can customize the game to suit the occasion, the number of players, or the level of fun they desire. Below are several common and popular Shut the Box variations to enrich your gaming experience. 👇
🎯 Scoring Variants
- Remaining Number Scoring
When a player is unable to flip any more cards, add up the remaining numbers to determine their score for the round. The lower the score, the better. The goal is to reach "zero" (all closed cards). This is suitable for multiplayer matches, with scores compared after each round.
- Reverse Scoring
In contrast to classic scoring, the remaining numbers are added together to determine the score. The player with the highest score wins. This is suitable for players who enjoy a fast pace and excitement, encouraging the pursuit of high-scoring combinations.
- Timed Challenge
Set a time limit for each round (e.g., 1 minute) and try to close as many numbers as possible within the time limit. If the time limit is exceeded, the remaining numbers count as penalty points. This increases the intensity and tests your reaction speed.
⚙️ Rule Variants
1. One-Die Variant
After the numbers 7, 8, and 9 are blocked, the player can only roll one dice.
This is a common advanced rule for classic gameplay. It improves late-game strategy and avoids relying solely on luck.
2. Limited Combination Flip
Players must use two number combinations based on the dice roll to close the box. For example:
If a 9 is rolled, the only options are 5+4, 6+3, 2+7, or 1+8.
3. Fixed Sequence Closing
Numbers must be closed from left to right (i.e., 1 must be closed first, then 2, and so on). This greatly increases the difficulty and relies on luck and planning.
4. Double Roll
Each round, players can choose to roll the dice twice, but the result of the second roll must be used. This allows players to choose between risk and reward.
5. Combo Bonus
If you can close multiple numbers with a single roll (for example, 6 + 3 = 9, and both numbers can be closed), you earn "combo points" or an extra roll. This encourages players to boldly try multiple combinations.
6. Reverse Closing
Each time you close a number, the next player must "turn over" the same number. This two-player game is highly entertaining and strategic.
7. Teamwork
Two players team up against the other team. After each roll, players must coordinate how to close the cards.
8. Target Number Challenge
A "target number" (for example, 15) is drawn before the game begins. Players must try to close combinations that form that number. This is suitable for educating or training mental arithmetic players.
9. Variant Number Board (1-12 Versions)
Expand the numbers from 1 to 12 (requires additional wooden tiles or an expansion board).
10. Triple Dice Extreme
Uses three dice for a higher total, allowing players to close multiple number combinations. For example, if you roll 5, 6, and 4 for a total of 15, you can choose to close 8+7 or 9+6.
🧮 Fun Variants
- Pub Penalty Version
In the traditional British pub game:
Whoever fails to close all the numbers must "take a drink." A must-have for fun gatherings, the authentic pub game.
- Mission Dice Version
1️⃣ Must close an even number 2️⃣ Must close an odd number 3️⃣ Close a total of 10 4️⃣ Any number 5️⃣ Roll again 6️⃣ Skip this round
Tips for Playing Shut the Box
While Shut the Box may seem like a simple game of rolling dice and blocking numbers, consistently winning each round requires a bit of strategy and thinking. Here are some practical tips to help you feel more in control. 👇
1️⃣ Prioritize blocking large numbers to maintain flexibility later on.
At the beginning, try blocking large numbers (such as 9, 8, and 7) first, as they have fewer possible combinations. Leaving smaller numbers behind gives you more options for rolling different combinations later on, preventing a situation where you're stuck and can't block them.
2️⃣ Remember that the average dice roll is 7.
The average sum of two dice is 7, so it's often more effective to plan your bets around intermediate numbers like 6, 7, and 8. For example, if you have 6, 7, 8, and 9 remaining, prioritize combinations that can result in a 7 or 8.
3️⃣ Think of several possible number combinations before rolling the dice.
Before rolling the dice, imagine several possible number combinations. For example, if you roll a 9, you could choose to close the 9, or you could choose 6+3 or 5+4. Thinking ahead will help you make faster decisions during your turn, improve efficiency, and reduce mistakes.
4️⃣ Adjust your strategy based on the situation.
If you're late in the game and only have low numbers (1-4) left, you can be more conservative with your closings, prioritizing ensuring you can continue to the next round rather than going all in. Conversely, if only high numbers remain, take a risk.
5️⃣ Don't ignore probabilistic thinking.
Remember that each dice number has a different probability of appearing—for example, 7 is the most common total (because it has the most combinations), while 2 and 12 have the lowest probability. Leverage this information to predict which numbers are more likely to appear during the round and plan your closing order accordingly.
6️⃣ Observe other players (applicable in multiplayer mode).
In shut the box 4-player mode, observing your opponent's number distribution is also helpful. If you find that your opponent has a lot of large numbers left, you can adopt a conservative strategy and try to close small numbers to ensure a low-score victory.
What's the Best Strategy to Win Shut the Box?
To win at Shut the Box, the core strategy is to strike a balance between flexibility and risk.
👉 Early Strategy: Control Risk and Prioritize Large Numbers
Initially, your goal is to maximize future options. Prioritize eliminating large numbers like 7, 8, and 9, leaving more possible combinations for smaller numbers. For example, leaving 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 covers most numbers.
👉 Mid-Term Strategy: Build Around Middle Numbers
When the numbers dwindle to middle numbers (such as 4-8), refer to the average dice roll of 7 and try to create combinations that cover common sums of 6, 7, and 8.
👉 Late-Term Strategy: Calculate Combinations and Act Decisively
When only a few numbers remain, consider taking a bold risk, calculating the remaining possible combinations, and then taking a gamble. For example, if only 6 and 1 remain and you roll a 7, it's a perfect "Shut the Box" outcome!
👉 Mental Strategy: Maintain Patience and Pace
Don't rush to close numbers, especially in multiplayer games. Take a few seconds to consider your choices; sometimes, a single, quick decision can mean the difference between victory and defeat.
Conclusion: Come and try Shut the Box
Mastering Shut the Box relies not only on luck but also on calculation and judgment. Knowing how to plan number sequences, apply averages, and flexibly adjust your strategy can significantly increase your chances of winning. Best of all, whether you win or lose, this game always offers laughter and suspense—that's the true charm of Shut the Box.
If you're still looking for a good set of dice, you can pick up a high-quality D6 from Bear Dice and experience the feeling of "rolling the perfect combination and closing the last number." Let's Shut the Box and enjoy the fun of dice rolling!