If you enjoy games that mix tension, laughter, and a physical challenge, Bandu is the right choice! It's the kind of game that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats, rooting for their friend's tower to not fall. Perfect for livening up any gathering!
thumb_up
Highlights
check_circle
Guaranteed tension and laughter
check_circle
Manual dexterity challenge
check_circle
Fun and unpredictable auction
check_circle
Fast and easy to learn
warning_amber
Keep in mind
report_problem
Towers can fall quickly
report_problem
Luck in auction matters
report_problem
Requires space to play
upload_file
Rules manual not indexed yetUpload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.
info
About the game
What you do in a play session
Get your steady hands and your bluffing skills ready, because Bandu (also known as Bausack or Sac Noir) is a dexterity and auction game that will test who has nerves of steel! The idea is simple: each player builds their own tower using wooden blocks of very different shapes. Each round, a block is chosen and players enter a fierce auction, using 'beans' as currency. Whoever bids the highest (or is forced to accept the block) must add the piece to their tower. The catch? If your tower collapses, you're out! The last player with their structure intact claims the glory. There are a few variations, but the essence is always the same: balance, strategy to avoid picking up overly 'problematic' blocks, and a good dose of luck in the auction. It's a game that promises laughter, tension, and 'will it fall?' moments that appeal to both casual players and those who enjoy a more physical challenge. Perfect for anyone who likes party games with a touch of manual skill and a dash of negotiation.
photo_library
Gallery
Box and component photos
11 photos · from the community
01 / 11
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
businessPublisherCompeto / Marektoy, Giochi Uniti, Hasbro, Lord Carter, Milton Bradley, Vennerød Forlag AS, Zoch Verlag
editDesignerKlaus Zoch
paletteArtistJan Richard Hansen, Olivia Schuff, Wundergestalten
groups_2
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
5,249owners
895wishlist
187want to play
quiz
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
6 questions
What is the average playtime? expand_more
Bandu games are quite fast, usually lasting between 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of players and their skill in knocking down others' towers!
How many players can participate? expand_more
It works for groups of 2 to 8 players. The more people, the more chaotic and fun the auction and tower building become!
Is the game very complicated to learn? expand_more
Not at all! The rules are super simple: pick a block, bid, place it on the tower. The challenge lies in the execution (steady hand!) and the strategy of when to risk it or pass.
Do I need a lot of components to play? expand_more
Basically, you need the game with the wooden pieces and the 'beans' (which are the auction currency). A reasonable space to build the towers is important to avoid accidental collapses before their time.
Is it a game for children? expand_more
Yes! With supervision for younger ones, it's great for developing motor coordination and a sense of balance. From ages 8-10, they usually enjoy it a lot.
What's the difference between Bandu, Bausack, and Sac Noir? expand_more
They are essentially the same game, with slight variations in components or rules depending on the edition/publisher. The core mechanic of stacking and auctioning blocks is the same.