Optimal Yahtzee Strategy

An Optimal Strategy for Yahtzee
James Glenn
Loyola University Maryland
2006

Abstract

This study explores the development of an optimal strategy for the game of Yahtzee, a popular dice game requiring both chance and strategic decision-making. Utilizing dynamic programming techniques, the research systematically analyzes the probabilities and outcomes of various possible moves to determine the most effective strategy for maximizing a player's score. The study incorporates comprehensive computational models to evaluate the expected values of different decisions across multiple stages of the game. The results offer a detailed framework for making optimal choices, from initial dice rolls to final scoring decisions, ultimately providing a robust strategy that can enhance a player's performance in Yahtzee. This work contributes to the broader understanding of strategic decision-making in games of chance and offers valuable insights for both casual players and game theory researchers.

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