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Dice Games

Shut the Box

A traditional dice game where players roll dice and close numbered tiles that match the total.

Players1 or more
Equipment2 dice + numbered board
StyleNumber game

Overview

A traditional dice game where players roll dice and close numbered tiles that match the total.

Objective

Close as many numbers as possible and finish with the lowest remaining total.

What You Need

  • 2 dice + numbered board
  • 1 or more players
  • A clear playing area

Setup

Open all numbered tiles. Choose the starting player and agree on when one die may be used, if your version allows it.

Shut the Box illustrated overview
Shut the Box at a glance — a visual guide to the setup and key rules of play.

How to Play

  1. Roll the dice and add them.
  2. Close one number or a combination of open numbers equal to the total.
  3. Roll again while a legal combination remains.
  4. If no legal combination can be made, the turn ends.

Scoring / Winning

Add the values of the remaining open numbers. Lower is better; closing every number shuts the box.

Worked Example

Follow one complete turn using the steps above, keeping the agreed scoring and turn rules visible until everyone is comfortable with the game.

Strategy Tips

Before choosing tiles, look at every open combination that matches the roll. Closing a large number is not always the only legal choice.

  • Keep the rules consistent for the whole game.
  • Track the current score or game state before the next roll.

Common Mistakes

  • Changing the agreed rules during play.
  • Forgetting which dice or values have already been kept.
  • Not deciding how ties are handled before the game starts.

Variations & House Rules

Traditional dice games often have family and regional variations. Agree on the version before the first roll and use it consistently.

FAQ

Can I close more than one number?

Yes, if the chosen open numbers total the dice result.

What is the best possible result?

Closing every number and shutting the box.