Our version uses six dice. The minimum to get on the board is 600 points with a minimum of 300 points for every other turn that follows, only the large straight counts for points (1500), three of a kind is scored the same as listed in this site’s rules, but we have no add-on scores for additional same numbers thrown during additional rolls. Three ones equal 1,000 points. When all six dice have been used as point makers then they may all be thrown again with play continuing with points being added or a Farkel occurs. This cycle can continue as long as one’s luck lasts. Once a player reaches 10,000 points or more then remaining players have one more opportunity to best that score. Our version makes it harder to get to 10,000 and can make for longer games, but what I was able to teach students about probability, decision making, patience, flexibility, losing, and sportmanship has been invaluable over the years; not to mention mental math and addition pracitice.

I have played Farkel with friends on planes, in airports, at conferences and workshops, in restaurants and cafes, traveling in cars, and even on the ferry going to and from Martha’s Vineyard. I have played Farkel in most of the major cities in this country. I have even taught my family’s version in professional development training to fellow math teachers. It is the best most portable game ever… six dice, a piece of paper, a pen or pencil, and at least one friend or family member willing to take time to have fun. Farkel rocks.