How a two-player game works
Each player has their own column of fifteen categories. Players alternate complete turns: one player rolls up to three times and scores a single box, then the other player does the same. You keep alternating until both players have filled all fifteen boxes. Add up each column, including the 50-point upper bonus if earned, and the higher total wins.
Pass-and-play in one tap
On this site, choose 2 Players (pass & play) on the home page and share one phone, tablet or computer. The game shows whose turn it is, fills in both columns automatically, and declares the winner at the end. There is no sign-up and nothing to install.
Keeping it fair
Two small conventions keep two-player Yatzy fair. First, agree who goes first, since the first player has a tiny edge over a long session, so alternate who starts across games. Second, do not call your category until you have finished rolling, so neither player feels rushed. Beyond that, the dice are the dice.
Playing with three or more
The same rules scale up. Our printable score sheet has six columns for larger groups, and the online game supports head-to-head two-player now with more players planned. For a big family game night, the printed sheet plus a single set of five dice is hard to beat.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play Yatzy with two players?+
Both players use the same fifteen categories in their own column. Player one takes a full turn (up to three rolls, then scores a box), then player two does the same. You alternate until both columns are completely filled, and the higher grand total wins.
Can two people play Yatzy on one device?+
Yes. Choose the two-player pass-and-play mode and hand the device back and forth on each turn. The game tracks both columns and tells you whose turn it is, so there is nothing to set up.
Is there online multiplayer with friends on separate devices?+
Pass-and-play on one device is available now. Real-time online multiplayer across separate devices is on our roadmap. In the meantime, two players on one device or a printed score sheet covers most game nights.