Scoreboard
đBalut Rules
Balut is a dice game similar to Yahtzee, created by U.S. soldiers in the Philippines as an alternative to poker. The game involves rolling five dice up to 3 times to make various combinations, which are noted on a scorecard.
A Balut is a five-of-a-kind of any denomination. When you get a Balut, announce it by calling out "Balut!" similar to calling out "Bingo!"
đŽGameplay
On a turn, a player may roll the dice up to three times. After a roll, the player may take one or more dice out of play to save their result and then roll the remaining dice.
There are seven scoring combinations that the player may only achieve once. At the end of the turn, the player will score per the combo created. If the player cannot create a combo, then the player must scratch one of their remaining unfulfilled combos. That scratched combo is no longer playable for the remainder of the game.
Play continues until all players have completed the 7 combo possibilities with a score or a scratch. High score wins.
đScoring Combinations
The 7 Combinations
- Fours: Scores points for each four (4 points per four)
- Fives: Scores points for each five (5 points per five)
- Sixes: Scores points for each six (6 points per six)
- Straight: A five dice sequence (1-2-3-4-5 or 2-3-4-5-6) - scores 20 points
- House: One triple plus one pair - scores sum of all five dice
- Choice: Scores sum of all five dice
- Balut: Five of a kind - scores 25 points (announce "Balut!" when achieved)
â ī¸ Scratching
If you cannot create any valid combination after your three rolls, you must scratch (mark as zero) one of your remaining unfulfilled combinations. That combination cannot be used for the rest of the game.
đĄStrategy Tips
Prioritize High-Value Combinations
Focus on getting Balut (25 points) and Straight (20 points) first, as these are worth the most points. However, don't ignore the simpler combinations - Fours, Fives, and Sixes can also contribute significantly to your total score.
Strategic Scratching
When you must scratch a combination, think carefully about which one to choose. It's often better to scratch combinations that are harder to achieve (like Balut) rather than easier ones (like Choice or Fours), unless you're confident you won't need them.
- Save your best rolls for high-value combinations (Balut, Straight, House)
- Use Choice as a fallback when you can't make any other combination
- Pay attention to what combinations your opponent still needs
- Don't be afraid to scratch a combination early if you're unlikely to get it
- Remember that House requires both a triple and a pair - plan accordingly
âFrequently Asked Questions
What is a Balut?
A Balut is five of a kind (all five dice showing the same number). When you achieve a Balut, you should announce it by calling out "Balut!" similar to calling "Bingo!" in Bingo. A Balut scores 25 points, making it one of the most valuable combinations in the game.
What happens if I can't make any combination?
If you cannot create any valid combination after your three rolls, you must scratch (mark as zero) one of your remaining unfulfilled combinations. That combination cannot be used for the rest of the game. Choose wisely - it's often better to scratch harder combinations if you're unlikely to get them.
What's the difference between House and Balut?
House requires one triple (three of a kind) plus one pair (two of a kind), for example: 3-3-3-5-5. It scores the sum of all five dice. Balut requires all five dice to show the same number, for example: 4-4-4-4-4. It always scores 25 points, regardless of which number appears.
Can I use Choice multiple times?
No, like all combinations in Balut, Choice can only be used once per game. Choice scores the sum of all five dice, making it a good fallback option when you can't make any other combination. Use it wisely!
What's the best strategy for winning?
The best strategy involves prioritizing high-value combinations (Balut, Straight, House) while using your rolls efficiently. Save your best rolls for these combinations, and use simpler combinations (Fours, Fives, Sixes) to fill in your scorecard. Strategic scratching is also important - scratch combinations you're unlikely to get rather than easier ones.
Can I scratch a combination even if I could score points?
No, you can only scratch a combination if you cannot make any valid combination after your three rolls. If you can score points in any category, you must do so. Scratching is only used as a last resort when you have no valid scoring options.
How does the AI opponent work?
Our AI opponent uses probability calculations and strategic decision-making to choose which dice to hold and which combinations to aim for. It evaluates all possible combinations, considers the value of each combination, and makes decisions that maximize its expected score. The AI adapts its strategy based on what combinations it still needs to fill.
âšī¸About Balut
Balut is a dice game similar to Yahtzee, created by U.S. soldiers stationed in the Philippines as an alternative to poker. The game combines elements of luck and strategy, making it both exciting and challenging.
The name "Balut" comes from a Filipino delicacy (a fertilized duck egg), and the game's signature move is calling out "Balut!" when you achieve five of a kind, similar to calling "Bingo!" in the game of Bingo. This tradition adds an element of excitement and celebration to the game.
Why Play Balut Online?
- Play against a challenging AI opponent anytime
- Experience a unique dice game with Filipino origins
- Practice your strategic thinking and decision-making skills
- Enjoy a classic game with modern, beautiful graphics
- Free to play - no registration required
- Switch between Classic and Vegas themes for different experiences
This online version of Balut brings the classic game to your browser with smooth animations, beautiful themes, and an intelligent AI opponent. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, you'll find this version both fun and challenging.
We hope you enjoy playing Balut! Good luck and may the dice roll in your favor! đ˛