Cube Checkers (1997)

About this game

Play is essentially the same as standard Anglo-American Checkers with short jumps, but with the addition of a "roll-over" stage at the end of non-capture moves. Each player begins with twelve six-sided dice with the "one" faces showing in the standard Checkers initial arrangement. Maximal jumping captures are mandatory, but after non-capture moves, a player increases the number on any other die by one (unless the die moved is that player's last piece). Any die showing a "six" is a standard Checkers king that may move or capture backwards or forwards. Pieces that reach the opposite last row also become kings immediately, but the turn ends. US Patent 5636841. Game invented by Robert Burroughs.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 2.0/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 6 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.