HT High Rollers: The Perfect Pinwheel 🎲

Overview

The Perfect Pinwheel is a fast-paced, competitive dice game perfect for two or more players looking to gamble or just have fun. A thrilling twist on the classic “Ship, Captain, and Crew,” this game adds high-stakes dynamics and wild rule variants. Easy to learn but hard to master, this game is ideal for casino nights, friendly wagers, or game night with a twist.

What You Need

• 5 standard dice
• 2 or more players
• A betting system (coins, chips, cash, or points)

Objective

Be the first to roll a 6 (Ship), then a 5 (Captain), then a 4 (Crew) — in that exact order — and earn the highest “cargo” score (sum of the remaining two dice).

Game Sequence

How to Play

1. Each player gets up to three rolls per turn.
2. All five dice are rolled on the first roll.
3. After each roll, players must set aside dice in sequence (6 → 5 → 4).
4. Once 6, 5, and 4 are set, the remaining two dice are your “cargo.”
5. The cargo total is your score for the round.

Important Sequence Rules

• Must lock a 6 before you can lock a 5.
• Must lock a 5 before you can lock a 4.
• Only after setting 6, 5, and 4 can the remaining dice count toward your cargo.

Scoring

• Cargo = sum of the last two dice (after Ship, Captain, and Crew are locked).
• Highest cargo among all players wins the round and takes the pot.
• Tie? Tied players do a one-roll shootout. Highest cargo from one roll wins.
• If no one completes the 6-5-4 sequence in a round, the pot carries over.

The Perfect Pinwheel Rule

Instant Win: If a player rolls 6, 5, 4, and two 6s (cargo = 12) on their first roll, it’s considered a “Perfect Pinwheel” — automatic win of the entire pot. This rule is optional but adds excitement!

High Roller Variants & House Rules

• 3-Roll Minimum: Players must take all three rolls, even if 6-5-4 is achieved early.
• Joker Dice: The number 1 counts as wild after setting your 6.
• Blazing 6s: If your cargo is a pair of 6s, you automatically double the pot or beat all other cargo totals.
• Penalty for No Ship: Failing to get a 6 in three rolls means you owe double the ante next round.

Example Turn

Roll 1: [6, 3, 3, 5, 2] → Set aside the 6 (Ship). You cannot touch the 5 yet.

Roll 2: [3, 3, 5, 2] → Set aside the 5 (Captain). Still can’t keep the 4 yet.

Roll 3: [4, 6] → Set aside the 4 (Crew). Your remaining die is 6. Your score is 6.

Tips for Winning

• Prioritize getting the sequence — cargo doesn’t count unless you have 6-5-4.
• Use your last roll to maximize cargo once the sequence is locked.
• Pay attention to other players’ scores — gamble smartly in tiebreakers.
• Bluffing and table talk can enhance fun in house-rule games!

Suggested Stakes

• Low: Poker chips, pennies, or tokens for casual play.
• Medium: $1 ante per player per round.
• High Roller: $5–$20 buy-in per round, depending on your group.

Final Thoughts

The Perfect Pinwheel is a dynamic, exciting game of chance, strategy, and sometimes outrageous luck. Whether you’re playing for fun or real stakes, this game brings everyone to the table. Just remember: the sequence is king, cargo wins the crown! 🎲👑