Description
Shut the Box is a traditional dice game that dates back to at least the 12th century and is believed to have originated in Normandy, France. Originally a game for sailors and fishermen, it became popular in English pubs in the 19th century. The simplicity and portability of the game have helped it endure as a favorite pastime over the centuries.
How to Play (with 10 Numbers)
Shut the Box is played with a wooden box featuring 10 or 12 numbered tiles – this version is 10 labeled (1 through 10) and two dice. Players take turns rolling the dice and “shutting” (flipping down) one or more tiles that add up to the total of the dice roll. For example, if a player rolls a 7, they can flip down tile 7 or any combination of tiles that sum to 7 (e.g., 3 and 4). The turn continues until a player cannot flip down tiles matching their roll. The goal is to shut all the tiles; if that’s not possible, the player’s score is the sum of the remaining numbers. The player with the lowest score wins.
