# Black Ice

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2007
- **BGG Rating**: 5.8
- **BGG Rank**: #22755
- **Players**: 2 (Best with: 2)
- **Duration**: 15 min
- **Weight**: 1.29 / 5
- **Designers**: Andrew Looney
- **Publishers**: Looney Labs
- **Categories**: Abstract Strategy, Memory
- **Mechanics**: Dice Rolling, Memory, Pattern Building

## Verdict
If you love quick head‑to‑head battles that tax memory and deduction, Black Ice will hook you right away.Fast and intenseMemory takes center stageEasy to learnRequires Treehouse pyramidsLacks narrative themeRECOMMENDED

## Description
Black Ice is a fast‑paced 15‑minute duel for two players that blends memory, dice rolling and pattern building. Each game starts with a secret code made up of three elements, each of which can be one of four colors. The goal for each competitor is to uncover that combination before the opponent does. To achieve this, players use three Treehouse pyramid dice – the iconic “pyramids” whose faces display colors and symbols. On each turn a die is rolled and the result dictates what kind of action the player may take: reveal a color of the code, test a specific position, or make a guess. As colors are revealed, memory comes into play; you must remember where each color appeared and which combinations have been ruled out. At the same time, pattern building emerges as players try to assemble logical sequences from the clues, anticipating the opponent’s next move. The game was released as part of the 3HOUSE booklet in July 2007 and uses three full Treehouse sets, but it is unrelated to the 2000 Icehouse expansion. Being an abstract title, there is no narrative theme—just the tension of a secret code that unfolds piece by piece. Dice rolling adds a dash of randomness, yet most of the outcome hinges on your ability to remember and deduce. Perfect for fans of short, mental, competitive bouts, Black Ice fits neatly into any pyramid‑game box and can be played back‑to‑back without fatigue. If you have a pair of friends who love tactical duels and memory challenges, this is a solid addition to your collection.

## FAQ
### How many players can play?
Exactly two players. The game is built for head‑to‑head duels.

### How long does a game take?
About 15 minutes, give or take, depending on how quickly the code is cracked.

### What is the complexity level?
Very low – the rules are easy to grasp, though the memory strategy can get deep.

### Do I need special dice?
Yes, Black Ice uses the Treehouse pyramid dice, usually supplied in three full sets.

### Is it kid‑friendly?
The mechanics are simple, but remembering color combos may be tough for very young children.

### Are there expansions or variants?
No official expansions exist; the game is complete as is with the Treehouse components.

### Can I use other dice instead?
You could, but the game was balanced around the Treehouse pyramids, so results may vary.