Throwing dice is fun. It has been for centuries, and it's been used in games for a long time, too, ranging from Backgammon to Yahtzee. With that being the case, modern games have also used dice to great effect, some even revolving around rolling the dice.
Most modern games use some sort of randomization behind the curtain in order to estimate the outcome of events. However, it's always nice to see a meta use of dice, where you get to see the results and interact with them to some extent. Here are the best games that use dice as their main mechanic.
10/10 Dicey Dungeons
Dicey Dungeons is a game that not only revolves around dice but is fully immersed in the idea. In this game, you pick one of four classes, which all function differently, and try to make your way to Lady Luck and defeat her.
While the classes play in different ways, it's all about how you manipulate the dice you have. You can split, multiply and do many more things before using specific dice for specific actions. It's very intuitive and is surely among the best games with dice as the main mechanic.
9/10 Tharsis
Tharsis, if it was to be summarized in one sentence, is Yahtzee in space. While that's an oversimplification, the core premise is quite similar. You roll dice and assign them to the locations that allow you to win.
In Tharsis, you're in control of a crew that is trying to survive a ship that's failing spectacularly. Each crew member has abilities that require specific dice, and they solve problems that require specific dice. The game conveys the hopeless nature and dread perfectly, making it even more frustrating when you can't get the result you need.
8/10 Citizen Sleeper
On a less immediately dangerous yet still dreary sci-fi note, Citizen Sleeper is a great game. Unlike many entries on this list, this is less of a roguelike, and instead borrows a lot of elements and mechanics from RPGs. The game really shines through its world building, though.
Citizen Sleeper puts you in the shoes of an escaped worker taking refuge in a space station. The game has great writing and pridefully criticizes capitalism in a fresh way. The game feels freeing, as you have tons of flexibility with actions, decisions, and skills that are sure to keep you interested for a long time.
7/10 Slice And Dice
Slice and Dice is a classical fantasy adventure merged with some fun dice mechanics. In this game, you control a party of unique heroes and try to make your way through waves of heroes and slay the dragon, simple stuff. However, the brilliance of the game lies in its mechanics.
While it seems like a simple Yahtzee-like rerolling system, the dice are exclusive to each hero and class. That means a Fighter will have different outcomes on their dice than a Mage. This variety, combined with a decent spell system and a well-paced progression of classes, enemies, and items, make Slice and Dice a very likely modern classic.
6/10 Dice Legacy
Dice Legacy is an interesting game, for sure. It feels like a push-your-luck-style board game mixed with a city-building puzzler. Thus, it's weird that the game is actually an RTS game, clashing with the core mechanics according to lots of players.
However, if you jump in knowing what the game is, there's tons of fun to be had with Dice Legacy. In this game, you're trying to gather resources, build a city and survive. To do so, you'll have to use your dice as the engine, prompting units and buildings to use their actions. While it takes some getting used to, Dice Legacy is an interesting and enjoyable game to play.
5/10 Armello
When talking about dice as a central mechanic, one of the first things that come to mind is board games. With that being the case, video games that simulate board game mechanics usually end up using dice as well. One great example of this is Armello.
In Armello, you control an anthropomorphic animal hero and try to finish quests, scheme, explore and battle with others, trying to become King or Queen. Encounters and combat are resolved through the roll of some unique dice, and it's always a treat to feel how tactile they are throughout a game. There's also a multiplayer mode, so you can play with friends!
4/10 Lost In Random
While many dice-centric games use the dice as a mechanic or an engine, sometimes, the dice is just as much the main character as a human. Lost in Random is an action-adventure game in which you control a young woman and her companion die throughout a gothic, Burton-esque fairytale.
The atmosphere in this game is impeccable, with otherworldly creatures, great dialogue, and gorgeous visuals. Despite having come out only in 2021, the game is beloved by many. If you're looking for a game that utilizes dice like no other, Lost in Random should be your first choice for sure.
3/10 RPG Dice: Heroes Of Whitestone
RPG Dice: Heroes Of Whitestone is a mobile game available on Android and iOS. While that may immediately raise some red flags for some people, this is actually a great game. To begin with, the presentation, art style, and overall feel of the game are quite satisfying.
On top of that, the game provides surprising amounts of depth, especially in terms of character customization and builds. While there are some gacha elements that many mobile titles are plagued with, this one, in particular, earns respect through a simple yet enjoyable game.
2/10 Blood Bowl
Blood Bowl as a series has a hilarious premise. An American Football arcade game with orcs, dwarves, and any fantasy creature you can think of. What results is an absolute blast as you tackle opposing players with your spiked armor before they get a touchdown.
The dice in the game govern how your actions turn out, adding more chaos to the already hectic gameplay. While the game is noble and may not necessarily seem appealing to all, it is an absolute joy to fool around in, and the multiplayer mode is a great time without a doubt.
1/10 Children Of Zodiarcs
If you're looking for a less outlandish game than literal fantasy football, Children of Zodiarcs may be up your alley. This is a gorgeous game with a very distinct visual style, with lovely character designs and bright colors.
The premise is classical, with a few outcasts trying to rise against the noble lords and ladies. The game uses TTRPG mechanics such as cards and dice, but you also get to craft dice, potentially strengthening your playstyle or cards. The dice are also physics-based, which always adds to the satisfaction.
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