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Bunco is a simple, fun, and fast-paced game, and a surefire mixer for larger gatherings.

The only catch with Bunco is that you need at least 12 people to play and multiples of four thereafter. So be flexible as the host. You and a friend or two might need to sit out to make sure you have the right number of people. Set up a table for every group of four, and put three dice on each table. You’ll also want to give each person a Bunco score sheet (either purchased or just a blank piece of paper) and a pencil. A buzzer or a bell can be used to signal the end of each round. Number the tables from one to four.

There are numerous versions of Bunco and various score card templates that can easily be found online. No matter what version of Bunco you play, someone who comes to your gathering will know a different version. Try a few variations, and play the one that is most engaging and fun. The rules to a high-energy version follow. Table one should start each round by ringing the bell. Partners sit across from each other at the table. Each person takes turns rolling the three dice. Partners score a point for each die that matches the round (also called the target). For examples, during the first round, partners score one point for every “1” they roll. During the second round, partners score one point for every “2” they roll. Partners keep rolling as long as they score at least one point during a roll. When no targets are rolled, the dice go to the next player. When the dice land on three targets (for example, three”3s” in the third round), players yell “Bunco!” All players try to grab the dice. If a player grabs two or more dice, his or her team scores five points and continues rolling. If no one grabs the die, the next player rolls the die, and no points are awarded.

The round is over whenever any pair scores 21 points. The pair with the lower score at table one moves to table four and each player switches partners. The pairs with the highest score at all the other tables move up one table, taking a new partner. Awards can be given for the highest total number of points, the most wins at a table, as well as the total number of “buncos” an individual grabs.

Instant Intentions

Use the natural transition when players switch tables between rounds to spark conversation. You can provide guided questions they should discuss before starting the round that may lead to faith discussions. For example, you could have tables discuss questions like: “Other than family members, what are the three most important things in your life?”

From the book, Field Guide to Neighborhood Outreach by Group Publishing, 2007.