Bandu

Competo / Marektoy, Giochi Uniti, Hasbro · Board game · 1987
7.3 Ludopedia 6.8 BGG 2–8 · best 4 15–45 min Weight 1.3/5
Buy · from US$ 52.45
7.3 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

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!

Highlights
  • Guaranteed tension and laughter
  • Manual dexterity challenge
  • Fun and unpredictable auction
  • Fast and easy to learn
Keep in mind
  • Towers can fall quickly
  • Luck in auction matters
  • Requires space to play
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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.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–8 players
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC
6 REC
7 REC
8 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: Gems/Crystals Mechanism: Tower Stacking
Publisher Competo / Marektoy, Giochi Uniti, Hasbro, Lord Carter, Milton Bradley, Vennerød Forlag AS, Zoch Verlag
Designer Klaus Zoch
Artist Jan Richard Hansen, Olivia Schuff, Wundergestalten

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

5,249owners
895wishlist
187want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the average playtime?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.

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