Yahtzee News, Analysis, and Commentary

Yahtzee’s corporate overlords at Hasbro are flexing their grinch muscles just in time for the holidays by cutting nearly 20% of their workforce, or around 1,100 staff. They cite weak sales for toys and games, but coming out of a huge surge in demand during the pandemic I can’t help but wonder if Hasbro's decision is less about responding to current market conditions and more about recalibrating their business model to squeeze out higher profits, regardless of the human cost. In today’s topsy-turvy world, that seems about par for the course.

So watch out for further shrinkflation - you may only receive four dice in your next Yahtzee set if corporate greed is allowed to continue to go unchecked.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

The holiday season isn't just about festive decorations, cheerful gatherings, and indulgent feasts. It's a time when cherished traditions and simple joys take center stage, offering us moments of reflection and connection. One such timeless tradition that holds a deeper significance is the game of Yahtzee.

Yahtzee stands not just as a game but as a beacon of shared prosperity and communal joy. Beyond its dice and scores, it embodies the essence of collective participation and equitable opportunity. Yahtzee, often overlooked as a mere dice-rolling pastime, carries a profound meaning that beautifully aligns with the essence of the holidays.

Finding Unity in Shared Moments

The beauty of Yahtzee lies not just in the gameplay, but in the shared experiences it fosters. Whether it's gathered around a table with family or friends, the game becomes a vessel for bonding and laughter. The spirit of unity and togetherness that Yahtzee cultivates mirrors the holiday sentiment of cherishing companionship and creating lasting memories.

Gathered around the Yahtzee board, players become equals in chance and opportunity. The game transcends individual success, fostering an atmosphere where every participant shares in the highs and lows. In this collective pursuit, Yahtzee mirrors the ideals of unity and shared purpose, echoing the principles of a unified community.

Embracing Simplicity and Gratitude

In the rush of holiday preparations, Yahtzee serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate life's simple pleasures. With its straightforward rules and reliance on chance, it encourages players to embrace the moment and find joy in the present. The act of rolling the dice symbolizes embracing unpredictability—a metaphor for embracing the unpredictable journey of life with gratitude.

Lessons in Resilience and Adaptability

A key lesson Yahtzee imparts is resilience in the face of adversity. Sometimes, luck may not be on your side, yet the game teaches players to persevere, adapt strategies, and make the most of every opportunity. This mirrors the resilience we often seek during the holiday season, facing challenges with optimism and determination.

When faced with unforeseen outcomes, Yahtzee teaches resilience and collective adaptation. Players embrace challenges together, finding innovative strategies and collective strength—a reflection of the communal resilience sought in the face of adversity.

The True Meaning of Yahtzee

As we immerse ourselves in the holiday spirit, Yahtzee stands not just as a game but as a symbol of collective unity, equity, and resilience. It encapsulates the ideals of a harmonious society, where every member contributes equally towards a shared goal, celebrating both the individual and the collective triumphs. Beyond its gameplay, Yahtzee encapsulates the values of simplicity, gratitude, and adaptability—all elements that resonate deeply with this festive time of the year.

By embracing the true meaning of Yahtzee, we uncover a profound significance that goes beyond rolling dice and scoring points. It becomes a companion that enriches our holiday moments with its valuable teachings and unwavering spirit.

As we navigate through this joyous season, let Yahtzee serve not only as a game but as a reminder to embrace life's unpredictability, cherish relationships, and find gratitude in the simplest of moments.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

Well folks, the year is almost at its end - can you believe it? 2023 has been a sight to behold—a time when the spirit of Yahtzee shone brighter than ever, powered by the vibrant community that surrounds it. But in the midst of our celebrations, we've also felt the loss of some mighty fine Yahtzee legends. Let’s take a moment to remember our fallen comrades-in-dice and ensure that their legacies will live forever.

Yahtzee might just be a simple roll of the dice, but it's woven itself into the lives of so many. These that we’ve lost were the backbone of our dice-rolling kin, the ones whose passion and love for the game left a mark that won't soon fade. They knew the game inside and out, sharing that joy of competition and the thrill of each roll with anyone who'd listen.

As we sit and reminisce on these cherished souls, let's honor their contributions to our tight-knit Yahtzee family. They weren't just players, they were the glue that held us together, reminding us of the joy found in friendly rivalry and the sweet satisfaction of a Yahtzee holler heard 'round the table.

Beyond the clacking of dice and the hoots of victory, these departed souls embodied the true spirit of Yahtzee. They brought folks together, spun tales of triumph and good-natured ribbing, and left behind a legacy that will live on in every roll of the dice.

So let’s raise our dice shakers, and give a tip of the hat to these fine folks who made Yahtzee a part of their lives - and in doing so, made it a part of ours. Here's to their passion, their sportsmanship, and the lasting impression they've left on our Yahtzee community worldwide.

Tamara's Roll of Honor:
A Yahtzee Legends Memorial

Tamara’s Roll of Honor is an annual celebration of our Yahtzee comrades that have passed on to the great dice shaker in the sky. It is named of honor of Tamara Lee Mason, who was killed on Christmas Day in 2011 for her love of Yahtzee. This year's honorees include three members of Yahtzee royalty.

Suzanne Marie Leddy (1953-2023) - Philadelphia, New York: "She was always up for a hot game of Yahtzee with her nieces."

Marilyn Luczaj (1930-2023) - Wausau, Wisconsin: "She was the queen of Yahtzee. Her favorite saying was to take one day at a time, which she did to the fullest."

Linda Forsen Fewell (1953-2023) - Floresville, Texas: "She enjoyed a very competitive game of Yahtzee, once being titled as the Yahtzee queen for ten Yahtzees in one game."

Crystal Morgan (1963-2023) - Clovis, New Mexico: "Crystal loved playing Yahtzee, and was referred by her family as the “Yahtzee Queen”."

Cliff McGary (1949-2023) - Anmoore, West Virginia: "He played Yahtzee up until the time he passed."

Rick Rust (1955-2023) - Browder, Kentucky: "As old legend would have it, he came into this world holding a pouch of tomato seeds, five Yahtzee dice and a chisel. He will always be remembered for refusing to take mercy on any opponent during Yahtzee."

My dear friend Louise Proctor and I recently took a road trip through the U.S. Midwest to promote our book, "The Yahtzee Manifesto." Our journey was a great success, and we had a fantastic time exploring the beautiful countryside and meeting many wonderful people. Along the way, we noticed that the states seemed to melt into one another, and we realized that there was a lot of homogeneity in modern American culture. This led us to the conclusion that the borders between states were originally drawn haphazardly, which has a profound impact on American democracy.

We realized that if we want to revive the true spirit of representative government, we need to start by redrawing state borders so that the true interests of the represented are always at the forefront of politics. The modern capitalist society has distorted representative democracy in many ways, one of which is gerrymandering of political districts, which distorts their shapes and makes them nearly unrecognizable from the original concepts of James Madison and Pericles. Our idea was to create a state of Appalachia (or perhaps three: Upper, Middle, and Lower) that encompasses this distinct geographic area and its culturally-unique people, carving bits and pieces of existing states to create a state where representation would be more natural and fair. We could continue to divide current states and reshape them with more logical borders all across the country.

Of course, resolving the issue of borders on a global scale will not happen overnight. But the World Yahtzee Revolution will attend to this in due time, once the global network of hierarchy and oppression has been removed. The fact is, borders of all kinds can be detrimental if they are not administered with due diligence, and this is where the game of Yahtzee comes in. Yahtzee is not just a fun and entertaining game, but it has the power to break down boundaries both physical and emotional, creating a more just, equitable world.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

I’ve been a Yahtzee player my entire life. Granny taught me to roll dice when I was just a wee lad. I’ve had a lot of triumphs at the Yahtzee table over the years but not every game is all peaches and cream. Sometimes it seems like the only kind of luck I have is bad luck. But I don’t let it stop me. When I get in a rut, there’s only one thing to do – break the hell out of it!

To become a Yahtzee master you need a keen intellect, a calm mind, and a sound strategy. But a little luck here and there doesn’t hurt either. Contrary to popular belief, luck isn’t entirely random. Good karma, for instance, will come back around just when you need it most. But if doing good deeds aren’t your thing, first reconsider your life choices and then get to work making some Yahtzee props and good luck charms.

Good luck can be manifested by physical objects like horseshoes, four-leaf clovers, and rabbits’ feet. But the real fun comes from turning everyday objects into practical luck-funnelers on game night. The cardboard backing from a pack of score cards is an ideal place to get started. It is a pure blank canvas for your imagination to run wild. Don’t hold back – let your creativity blossom into a Yahtzee-fueled masterpiece. Luck is sure to come calling!

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

In the realm of board games, particularly the evergreen classic Yahtzee, enthusiasts often find themselves pondering alternative scoring strategies. One such enigma is the notion of employing two scorecards within a single game to explore uncharted territories of scoring possibilities. The mind wanders and contemplates what could have been, as one takes a Full House after their second roll. Today, we delve into this intriguing concept, shedding light on its potential benefits and citing its relevance within the game's strategic framework.

Introducing multiple scorecards to a single game is an audacious endeavor that challenges conventional gameplay norms. By doing so, players open doors to unexplored realms of strategy and intrigue. It presents a unique opportunity to assess alternative scoring options that may have otherwise remained hidden amidst the confines of tradition.

Consider this scenario: during the early stages of a riveting Yahtzee game, one rolls the dice and achieves a noteworthy Full House after their second attempt. A sense of accomplishment washes over them as they confidently mark their triumph on their primary scorecard. However, curiosity looms large within the recesses of their strategic mind – what if they had taken an alternate route? What other untapped possibilities lie within those dice?

The introduction of a second scorecard becomes indispensable in satiating this thirst for knowledge and exploration. By simultaneously tracking scores on both cards throughout the game, players can conduct a comprehensive analysis of alternative scoring avenues at each juncture. This concept unveils itself as an invaluable tool for honing one's skills and broadening their understanding of effective gameplay.

Yet it is essential to approach this dual-scorecard strategy with caution and foresight. The adoption of multiple scorecards demands astute decision-making abilities from participants. It requires them to meticulously weigh potential gains against losses when selecting which card to assign scores to after each roll.

In essence, employing two scorecards in Yahtzee introduces an element reminiscent of the collective ideology. Each scorecard represents a distinct pathway, akin to the choices we encounter within society. By embracing this methodology, players immerse themselves in an intellectual exercise that transcends the boundaries of mere entertainment.

Moreover, this innovative approach to scoring aligns harmoniously with the strategic underpinnings of Yahtzee as a game. It encourages players to step beyond their comfort zones and venture into uncharted territories, much like the driving force behind societal progress. Through this lens, we perceive the dual-scorecard technique as an embodiment of sophistication and intellectual growth.

Delving into the unexplored realm of employing two scorecards during a single Yahtzee game unveils a treasure trove of alternative scoring possibilities. It challenges players to transcend conventional gameplay norms by venturing onto untrodden paths, just as society continuously seeks progress and evolution. By embracing this technique with authority and sophistication, enthusiasts can unlock new depths within their strategic prowess while indulging in the sublime joy of exploration.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

Greetings, Yahtzee comrades! Rick here, back with another tale from the dice-rolling trenches. This time, we're leaving the comfort of our living rooms and heading into the great outdoors. That's right, folks, we're taking Yahtzee into the backcountry!

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Rick, Yahtzee is an indoor game. What about the elements? How can roll dice in the grass?" Well, my friends, necessity is the mother of invention, and when it comes to Yahtzee, I'm nothing if not inventive.

During some recent bat work, my tech and I found ourselves at a hike-in campsite. The sky had opened up earlier, and everything was damp. As we settled in for the evening, my tech started up with some typical belly-aching: “But, sir, we don't have a table for Yahtzee!” Well I sure as heck wasn’t going to let a little rain and the absence of furniture keep us from some hot dice action.

Like Batman going for his utility belt, I reached into my pack and pulled out my trusty backpack cover. Unfurled, it became our makeshift Yahtzee table. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer. Rolling on that backpack cover was like rolling on a skate park - the dice skated, jumped, and spun in ways I'd never seen before. Plus, the cover acted as a protective diaper for the dice, shielding them from the damp ground.

The experience was a reminder that Yahtzee isn't just a game; it's an adventure. It's about adapting, improvising, and making the most of whatever situation you find yourself in. It's about finding joy in the unexpected and embracing the thrill of the roll, wherever you might be.

Now, about that picture. In the midst of our outdoor Yahtzee session, we noticed a peculiar formation in the dice. It was as if a creepy face, conjured up by my final roll of the game, was staring back at us. But my apprehension dissolved away when my colleague remarked that it looked more like Skeeter from the cartoon Doug. It was a fun, eerie addition to our game, reminding us that even in Yahtzee, there's room for a little mystery and creativity.

So, the next time you find yourself in the great outdoors, don't forget to pack your dice. You never know when you'll find a new favorite rolling surface or stumble upon a dice formation that looks like a 90s cartoon character. And remember, no matter where you are or what you're rolling on, just keep on rollin'!

Until next time,
Rick McCallister

Greetings, Yahtzee comrades! Today, we're stepping off the game board and onto the golf course to dissect the recent merger between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia's LIV Golf. That’s right, folks, it’s the second post about Saudi Arabia in less than a month. Someone’s makin’ big waves in the desert.

A Strategic Misstep or a Game of Chance?

In Yahtzee, we roll the dice, strategize, and make decisions that reflect our values. We don't sell out for a quick win. The PGA Tour's merger with LIV Golf, however, reeks of a desperate gamble, a roll of the dice hoping for a Yahtzee but risking a disastrous outcome.

Critics, myself included, view this merger as a blatant capitulation to the allure of "Saudi blood money," a term as chilling as it is revealing. This isn't a strategic masterstroke; it's "sportswashing" on a grand scale. The PGA Tour has tossed its dice into the wind, gambling its reputation and integrity on a risky venture.

The Power of the Dice (or the Dollar) and Its Corrupting Influence

In Yahtzee, the roll of the dice can be a thrilling moment of chance. But in the world of professional golf, it's the roll of dollar bills that holds sway. LIV Golf, backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), has been luring golf stars away from the PGA Tour with hefty paychecks. It's a stark reminder of how money can corrupt, turning a game of skill and strategy into a bidding war.

A Roll of Public Opinion: The Verdict is Not Kind

Just as a risky Yahtzee strategy can draw the ire or admiration of fellow players, the PGA Tour and LIV Golf are facing a harsh roll of public opinion. Some, like professional golfer Bryson DeChambeau, see the merger as a boon for golf – or at least his bottom line. But many others, including lawmakers, human rights groups, and fans, see it as a betrayal.

In Yahtzee, we make decisions based on our understanding of the game and our respect for our fellow players. The PGA Tour, it seems, has forgotten this fundamental principle. They've made a decision that prioritizes profit over integrity, and the backlash has been swift and severe. Rightfully so.

In Dice We Trust, Not Autocrats

The PGA Tour-LIV Golf merger is a stark reminder of the corrupting influence of money and power. It's a betrayal of the principles we hold dear in Yahtzee: fairness, strategy, and respect for the game and our fellow players. Golf has long been regarded as a gentleman’s game – have those glory days now been buried under dirty money?

As a pacifist and anti-authoritarian, I believe in the power of the people, not autocrats or corporations. And just as we trust in the roll of the dice in Yahtzee, we must trust in our ability to challenge and change the systems that prioritize profit over people.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

Listen up folks, and lean in close, because it's time for another session of dice talk in the world of Yahtzee, the king of dice games. I've been hearing a lot of chatter about these new "Yahtzee killers" like Marvel Dice Throne and King of Tokyo. Now don't get me wrong, I love a good game as much as the next guy, but let's get one thing straight - none of these upstarts are going to topple the classic beauty of Yahtzee.

First off, Marvel Dice Throne. Sure, it's got the superhero sheen, flashy colors, and the comic book fan service. And yeah, the combat is a novel touch. I can understand why it might draw in the crowds, especially the younger generations that grow up idolizing these heroes. But strip away the fancy artwork and the cool characters and what do you get? It's just super-powered Yahtzee with a dash of player vs. player combat. It lacks the elegance and simplicity of our old-school five-die classic.

King of Tokyo is another one. Giant monsters bashing each other around a cardboard Tokyo - sounds exciting, right? It's a fun game, I'll give it that, but again, when you boil it down, it's basically Yahtzee with extra steps. Power ups, special abilities, all of that jazz, they're just bells and whistles on the true core of the game: the beauty of rolling those dice.

Listen, I'm not saying these games aren't fun, or that they don't have their place. They absolutely do. But they aren't Yahtzee, and they aren't going to replace it.

Now, to be perfectly clear, I'm a Yahtzee purist. Give me five dice, a scratch pad, and an orange plastic cup and I'm in heaven. I don't need the smoke and mirrors, the fancy add-ons, or the over-the-top spectacle. I don't need the tomfoolery. What I need, what I crave, is the satisfying clatter of those dice in the cup, the thrill of chasing that elusive large straight or full house, and the sweet satisfaction of shouting 'Yahtzee!' at the top of my lungs.

So let them come, these so-called "Yahtzee killers." Let them flash their fancy graphics and complex mechanics. I'll be right here, rolling my dice, chasing the perfect score, loving every minute of it. Because nothing beats the pure, unadulterated joy of a good old game of Yahtzee.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

As a student of Yahtzee, it's hard not to notice the irony of Hasbro's recent partnership with the Mohammed Al-Ojaimi Group in Saudi Arabia. While Yahtzee itself has always been a game that brings people together and promotes inclusivity, its corporate overlords are now profiting from a company that operates in an environment that is notorious for disrespecting human rights.

Mohammed Al-Ojaimi Group is a Saudi Arabian company known for its involvement in real estate development, construction, and entertainment. The partnership, which was announced in 2017, aims to bring Hasbro's popular brands to Saudi Arabia through family entertainment centers and theme parks.

But the regime’s strict interpretation of Islamic law raises questions about how Hasbro's content will be adapted to conform to local cultural norms. Hasbro's brands, which often include characters and themes that are not traditionally associated with Islamic culture, may be subject to censorship or other modifications in order to comply with local laws and customs. But the success of product placements in the kingdom should be the least of Hasbro’s concerns.

Although the partnership was inked a year prior to the savage murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, corporations understand the risks in dealing with brutalist dictatorships. Cozying up to despots isn’t good for the public image. The Saudi government's record on human rights is alarming, with well-documented cases of suppression of freedom of speech, women's rights abuses, and persecution of the LGBTQ+ community and political dissidents.

It is troubling that Hasbro has chosen to partner with a company that operates in this environment, raising important questions about corporate accountability and the ethics of doing business with oppressive regimes. But in an unbridled capitalistic economy the almighty dollar almost always prevails. Just look at the more recent deals for popular Hasbro brands like Transformers, Monopoly, and Play-Doh.

American companies have a proven track-record of investment in Saudi Arabia, proving it’s easy to turn a blind eye to abuses so long as the checks keep coming in. Now joining more traditional exports like weapons deals and oil drills is . . . Yahtzee?

It’s enough to make your head spin. But it’s all according to plan for de-facto Saudi leader Mohammed bin Salman, or MBS, who, while continuing a brutal strong-arm campaign against rivals, has ever so slightly relaxed some of the kingdom’s strict social codes. More recreational options means more opportunity for foreign investment – and not just from dirty industry, but from clean white-washing entertainment corporations.

It's important to remember, however, that the game of Yahtzee itself stands for something different and cannot be sullied. It is a beacon of inclusion, promoting a spirit of friendly competition that transcends boundaries of age, gender, race, and religion. It's a game that has brought people together for decades, and will continue to do so despite the troubling partnership between Hasbro and the Mohammed Al-Ojaimi Group.

As a pacifist, I believe that nonviolent resistance is a powerful tool for promoting positive change. We can hold Hasbro accountable for their actions by contacting them directly and expressing our concerns about their partnership with the Mohammed Al-Ojaimi Group, as well as boycotting their products if we feel that they are not operating in a way that aligns with our values.

At the same time, we can celebrate the spirit of Yahtzee itself and use it as a reminder of the importance of inclusion, respect, and fair play. By standing up for what is right and promoting positive values, we can create a world that is more just and equitable for all.

The irony of Hasbro's partnership in Saudi Arabia should not go unnoticed. While Yahtzee itself is a game that promotes inclusivity, its corporate masters are now partnered with a regime that is notorious for human rights abuses. As a community of Yahtzee enthusiasts, we can call for corporate accountability and promote the positive values of inclusion and fair play that the game represents.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

Calling all Yahtzee enthusiasts! Hey Rollers, Rick here. As a community, let's take a moment to reflect on the prioritization of productivity over joy and connection. It seems our culture has been shaped to value hard work and efficiency above all else, leaving little room for laughter, singing, and caring for one another. This mindset has been ingrained in us by those in power who prioritize productivity over well-being. But is this truly the life we want to live? Is it worth working ourselves to the point of exhaustion just to retire with nothing left to give?

In Yahtzee, players must balance their desire for high scores with the unpredictability of the dice, making strategic decisions that weigh risk and reward. As in Yahtzee, so in life. A healthy society requires a balance between productivity and well-being, acknowledging the importance of hard work while also emphasizing the need for leisure and interpersonal connectedness. Prioritizing one aspect over another can lead to a lack of fulfillment and satisfaction. But that’s not the worst of it.

Unfortunately, our current social order has contributed to the rise of mental illness, yet we often blame the individual instead of examining the culture that created such conditions. It's no surprise that the same power structures that value hard work also prioritize capitalism. However, as a humanist, I believe in sharing resources and putting the well-being of our community above the accumulation of wealth. These are the values of communism, and while some may demonize it, we must question why those in power want us to fear it.

Because Yahtzee is more than just a game - it can also serve as a powerful tool for the working class to come together and unite. In doing so, we can break down the barriers that divide us and recognize our shared experiences as members of the working class. Yahtzee, therefore, can be seen as a way to build solidarity and mutual support among those who share a common struggle in the workplace. So let's roll the dice and join forces to create a better world for all of us.

By taking a break from the demands of our jobs and playing a game with our colleagues, we create an opportunity to build bonds and establish a sense of community. Take a bold step and invite your colleagues to play an invigorating game of Yahtzee during work hours, even if it's not during your scheduled break! Don't be afraid to break the routine and if you do decide to initiate the game, be assured that your friend Rick will be cheering you on. This could be a life-affirming experience for all involved!

Remember, when one of us succeeds, we all succeed. Let's work together to create a more well-rounded and connected culture. Join the Yahtzee Manifesto today!

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

Greetings, Dice Enthusiast!

Do you ever find yourself losing focus during Yahtzee gameplay? It's easy to get distracted or overwhelmed when playing this classic dice game. However, staying focused is crucial if you want to succeed at Yahtzee and improve your skills over time.

In "The Yahtzee Manifesto," Louise Proctor and I discuss how playing Yahtzee is not just a matter of luck; it also requires strategic thinking and mental agility. That's why it's important to stay sharp and keep your mind occupied while playing.

One way to do this is by practicing mindfulness techniques before and during gameplay. Take deep breaths, clear your mind of distractions, and concentrate on the task at hand. This will help you make more informed decisions about which dice to keep or reroll.

Another way to stay focused during Yahtzee gameplay is by challenging yourself with different strategies or variations of the game. For instance, try setting new goals for yourself like going for certain combinations that are less common but have higher point values.

Lastly, taking breaks can be just as important as staying focused! If you feel mentally exhausted or frustrated during gameplay, take some time away from the table to recharge before returning refreshed and ready for action.

Remember: Playing Yahtzee isn't just about rolling dice; it's also an opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement. By keeping your focus throughout each turn in this beloved classic game, you'll become a better player – both on the board and off!

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

One is the most important number to me, so when playing Yahtzee, I give it lots of respect. Some players like to use the Ones categories as a "dump site", but I don't like that strategy! It might be okay if the Upper Section bonus is safe, but don't forget to give the ones the respect they deserve. In Yahtzee, even one point can make a big difference.

In the Lower Section, Chance is the typical cesspit for a failed roll. Think of Chance like this: Imagine you're cleaning up after a fancy dinner. You've given the dog his scraps, put the veggie parts in the compost, and recycled the bottle of hooch. What's left? That's Chance. But don't think it's just garbage - Chance is still important! Even if it adds up to a paltry sum, it can never be zero.

Every point counts in Yahtzee. One can be the most powerful number.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

Big news in the board game community as Monopoly officially changes its lineup of playing tokens with a kitty cat replacing the iron. The removal of the iron token, long considered a symbol of female subordination, has been hailed as a step in the right direction.

This is not the first time, and will certainly not be the last, that that a board game has shuffled its playing piece selection. Clue, for example, has updated its repertoire of weaponry over the years. Generally, such moves are gimmicky marketing ploys to drive game sales. With interest temporarily fixated on a new playing piece, public attention is pulled away from the fact that these games are simply base representations of greed and murder. But in this day and age, when board games are controlled by international conglomerates, profit is the sole driving force in the decision-making process.

So why bother with Monopoly's marketing ploys and questionable morals when you can enjoy the classic game of Yahtzee? It's time to roll the dice and see why Yahtzee is the superior choice.

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

In radical sightseeing news, the Occupy Wall Street movement is beginning to draw NYC tourists. Along with the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building, the brave anti-corporate protesters in Zuccotti Park have become an attraction in their own right. Hopefully, as Occupy Wall Street continues to go global, the general public will soon come to terms with the simple truth that capitalism itself is the cause of class warfare. Maybe then a group of people standing up against economic exploitation won’t be seen as such an oddity.

The principles in The Yahtzee Manifesto share many similarities with those of the Occupy Wall Street protesters. And we also share this new-found stature as tourist traps. Attendance at Yahtzee tournaments sanctioned by the World Yahtzee Institute has increased 289% since the release of The Yahtzee Manifesto. Many in the audiences were not loyal followers of the Yahtzee Pro Circuit, but casual fans of the game whose interest was piqued by the Manifesto.

Here’s to the continued success of the Occupy Wall Movement, and the hope that it will lead to the World Yahtzee Revolution!

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister

Some have criticized my Yahtzee strategy for dealing with the Small and Large Straights, claiming it is too extreme. But I counter, what's wrong with being a dice-rolling extremist? When it comes to the Large Straight - or Largy, in common parlance - I implement a flexible - nay, downright lenient - policy. If I fail to achieve it after two attempts, I strike it from my scorecard, along with the 40 points it represents. Then I'll shift my focus to locking up the Upper Section bonus or pursuing a Yahtzee. By doing so, I not only give up on the Largy, but also shed any anxiety I may have about achieving an ordered number sequence. This approach improves my focus, goals, and overall well-being.

If you manage to lock in the Largy early in the game, it frees up mental space to concentrate on other tasks. For example, you could go after other combinations, like a Yahtzee or Yahtzee Bonus.

Now, let's talk about the Small Straight (Smally). She is statistically the easiest of all the Lower Section categories to achieve. So don't sweat it. It's a waste of time to chase after the Small Straight. For better results, just wait for it come naturally, like a late afternoon bowel movement.

The Small Straight is a master of disguise, often appearing as a jumbled mess after a roll. But with a closer look, you might find a cute and smiley Small Straight staring back at you. In dire situations, it can be a good friend, adding 30 much-needed points to your scorecard.

When you get right down to it, playing Yahtzee requires a balance between risk-taking and calculated decisions. Dealing with the Small and Large Straights, it's important to be strategic and not waste time chasing after a category that may be too difficult to roll. With a flexible policy in place for the Largy and a keen eye for the Smally, you'll increase your chances of winning the game and improve your overall well-being. So toss those dice with confidence and let the good times (and points) roll!

Keep on Rollin’,
Rick McCallister