Yatzy
yatzy: quick guide and game info
Yatzy is the fun, dice rolling game that mixes luck and strategy. Roll the dice and fill scoring categories to rack up the highest total. It is easy to jump into but rewarding when you plan your moves well.
On our site you play against Marty and can choose between a 5 dice or 6 dice version. Pick your format, be it one off, best of 3, or best of 5, for quick games or longer matches. Classic Nordic style Yatzy scoring with upper and lower sections, a 50 point bonus for reaching 63 in the upper section, and helpful hover explanations for every category.
You’ll take on Marty in every match and whether you’re aiming for the perfect Yatzy or carefully planning your scorecard, every decision counts.
game layout and setup
The game features a clean table layout with your dice and yours and Marty’s scoring sheet.
Choose 5 or 6 dice at the start. Roll up to three times per turn, locking the dice you want to keep. The upper section scores individual numbers (ones through sixes). If your total reaches 63 points or more, you’ll earn a 50-point bonus, making every roll in the early game important.
The lower section contains the traditional Yatzy combinations, including pairs, sets, straights, full house, chance, and the famous Yatzy.
There are different number of categories depending on which game option you choose. The scoring categories are clearly listed with hover tips that explain exactly how each one works. Your total, bonus progress, and Marty’s score stay visible at all times. Everything feels simple and familiar.
how to play yatzy
Yatzy is straightforward and exciting:
- Roll the dice (5 or 6 depending on your choice).
- Choose which dice to keep and which to reroll (up to two rerolls per turn).
- After your final roll, pick a category to score in.
- Fill every category once. The upper section (Ones through Sixes) gives a 50 point bonus if you reach 63 or more.
- In 6 dice games you get extra categories like Three Pair and Two Triplets.
Play one off for a single round or go for best of 3 or best of 5 to decide the overall winner. Marty will keep things competitive at his level.
how to win at yatzy
Winning Yatzy is about smart decisions and making the most of your rolls:
- Aim for the upper section bonus early for that valuable 50 points.
- Save high value categories like Yatzy or straights for strong rolls.
- Use your rerolls wisely and know when to take a safe score in Chance.
- In longer best of series, consistency beats one lucky round.
Play a few games and you will quickly learn which categories to prioritize. Challenge Marty and see if you can come out on top!
a little bit of yatzy history
Yatzy has been a favorite family and social dice game throughout the Nordic countries for decades. While many people know the American version, Yahtzee, the Scandinavian version of Yatzy has its own traditional scoring system and has long been played in homes, schools, and holiday cabins across the region.
The game’s appeal comes from its perfect balance of luck and strategy. Every roll presents new possibilities, but choosing where to record each score is what separates experienced players from beginners.
Today, Yatzy remains one of the most popular dice games in Northern Europe and continues to be enjoyed by players of all ages.
Want to play more board and dice games?
Check out more board and dice games below
Gomoku
Shut the Box
Pig (the dice game)
Four in a Row
