Diceless or Diced? Trivia Quiz

Answer:

Dice, one of the oldest games of chance, can be traced back to ancient civilisations such as Mesopotamia and Egypt. Initially made from materials such as bone, wood or ivory, dice evolved into the familiar six-sided cube we know today. Used in games of chance, strategy and gambling, they've played a role in cultures around the world. Over time, dice have diversified into different shapes and sizes, with different numbers of faces for specific games and purposes.

These are the ten games in this quiz that use dice:

Originating over 5,000 years ago, Backgammon is one of the oldest board games still played today. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia and evolved over the centuries through civilisations such as the Greeks and Romans. Originally known as "tables", it gained popularity throughout Europe and Asia, adapting to local cultures and rules. Dice are an integral part of backgammon, determining the movement of players' pieces across the board. The randomness of the dice adds an element of chance to the game, requiring players to strategise based on the outcome of their rolls.

Created by Charles Darrow in the early 20th century, Monopoly is a classic board game in which players buy, trade and develop real estate to bankrupt their opponents. Derived from an earlier game called "The Landlord's Game", Monopoly gained popularity during the Great Depression. Players roll dice to move around the board, buy properties and collect rents. Chance and community chest cards add unpredictability. While dice determine movement, they also influence the outcome of chance cards and certain game mechanics, such as determining doubles for extra rounds.

Clue, known as "Cluedo" outside North America, is a murder mystery board game invented by Anthony E. Pratt in 1943. Players take on the role of suspects solving a murder in a mansion. The game was inspired by Pratt's experience with code-breaking during the war. Players roll dice to move through rooms, make suggestions and deduce the murderer, weapon and location. Dice rolls determine movement and affect the pace of the investigation. The game blends deductive reasoning with luck, as dice rolls can affect the player's ability to reach key locations or make timely accusations, adding suspense to the mystery solving process.

Parcheesi, a classic board game, has its roots in India, where it was known as "Pachisi". The game made its way to England during the Victorian era and later to the United States. Players race their pieces around the board based on dice rolls, aiming to reach the centre while preventing their opponents from advancing. Strategy and luck play an important role in this family-friendly game, making it a favourite for gatherings and game nights.

"Mensch argere Dich nicht" (German for "Don't Get Angry, Man") is a popular board game originating in Germany in 1907. It's similar to the American game "Sorry!" Players race their four pieces around the board, trying to reach the home space while thwarting opponents. A roll of the dice determines movement, and pieces can be sent back to the start by landing on occupied spaces. The game's simple rules and emphasis on luck make it accessible to players of all ages. It's a staple of German boardgaming culture and has gained international popularity under various names and adaptations.

Risk is a strategic board game invented by French filmmaker Albert Lamorisse in 1957. Players aim to conquer territories and continents while eliminating opponents. The game involves diplomacy, negotiation and tactical planning. Each player controls armies represented by miniatures and conquers territories by rolling dice. The goal of the game is to achieve global domination by controlling the majority of the world map. Risk has become a classic game, renowned for its intense gameplay and complex strategies. It's enjoyed around the world and has inspired numerous variations and spin-offs, including digital adaptations.

"Hoo Hey How", also known as "Fish-Prawn-Crab", is a traditional Chinese gambling game played with three dice and a betting layout. Its exact origin is unclear, but it has been played in China for centuries. The rules of the game involve betting on symbols on the faces of the dice, including fish, shrimp, crab, coin, pumpkin and rooster. Players place bets on which symbols will appear face up after the dice are rolled. The game is very popular both at home and in gambling establishments.

"The Settlers of Catan" is a popular board game first published in 1995. Set on the fictional island of Catan, players take on the role of settlers who try to build and develop their settlements while trading and acquiring resources such as wood, bricks, sheep, wheat, and ore. The rules involve building roads, settlements and cities, with victory points awarded for various achievements. Dice are used primarily to determine resource production and the outcome of certain actions.

"Warhammer Quest", published by Games Workshop in 1995, is a fantasy board game set in the Warhammer fantasy universe. Players take on the role of heroes exploring dungeons, battling monsters and completing quests for treasure and glory. The game combines role-playing elements with tactical combat and exploration. Players use dice to determine the outcome of actions such as attacking, moving and finding treasure.

Bau cua ca cop, a traditional Vietnamese gambling game, uses dice and colourful tokens shaped like animals. It originated in Vietnam and is often played during Tet, the Lunar New Year. Players bet on which animals will come up when the dice are rolled. Each animal represents a specific payout. Bầu cua cá cọp is not only a form of entertainment, but also a cultural tradition celebrated on festive occasions.

Scrabble, Game of Life, Go, Candy Land, Jenga and Sorry! do not use dice.