Pick Up Sticks
(Public Domain), (Unknown), Adamigo · Board game · 1850
2–6 · best 3
10–30 min
Weight 1.1/5
Buy · from US$ 3.99
5.4
rating
Ludopedia
4.4
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
If you enjoy a manual skill challenge and want something quick to play with everyone, Pick Up Sticks is guaranteed fun! It's the classic Pick Up Sticks game, but with that strategic touch when choosing which color to grab.
Highlights
- Pure dexterity challenge
- Fast and easy to learn
- Great for all ages
- Simple, practical components
Keep in mind
- Can be frustrating at times
- Luck can hinder a steady hand
- Little strategic depth
Rules manual not indexed yet
Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.
About the game
What you do in a play session
Get your steady hand and patience ready, because in Pick Up Sticks, things get tense! The goal is simple: grab as many colored sticks as possible, one by one, using the black stick as a tool. There's just one catch: if you accidentally move any other stick, it's game over! You lose your chance to grab the others, and the round might end for you. Each color is worth different points, so strategy comes into play when choosing which one to pick. It's not just about luck, but about a lot of delicacy and a bit of 'how far can I go without messing it all up?'.
First published way back in 1850, this classic is one of those games that spans generations. It tests your motor coordination in a fun way, making it perfect for playing with family, friends, or even for introducing the world of games to kids. The original version comes in practical packaging, resembling a tube, which makes it easy to take anywhere. It's a fast-paced game that doesn't require much learning time and guarantees laughter and some sighs of relief (or frustration!) with every move. If you enjoy dexterity challenges and a touch of luck, Pick Up Sticks is a surefire hit!
First published way back in 1850, this classic is one of those games that spans generations. It tests your motor coordination in a fun way, making it perfect for playing with family, friends, or even for introducing the world of games to kids. The original version comes in practical packaging, resembling a tube, which makes it easy to take anywhere. It's a fast-paced game that doesn't require much learning time and guarantees laughter and some sighs of relief (or frustration!) with every move. If you enjoy dexterity challenges and a touch of luck, Pick Up Sticks is a surefire hit!
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
REC
3
BEST
4
REC
5
REC
6
REC
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
Loading playlist...
Where to Buy
Prices monitored daily
Finding best prices...
Prices unavailable at this time.
Price history — last 6 months (lowest new offer)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change.
Alert enabled!
Join the BoardGamesBot deals group
Get the best board game deals every day — without message spam.
Join the WhatsApp groupGame details
Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
(Public Domain), (Unknown), Adamigo, Aquamarine Games (COMPUDID), Bartl, Brio AB, Cardinal, Carlit, Cayro, The Games, Chateau, CHH Games, Creative Crafthouse, Dal Negro, danspil, Dilemma Games, Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Ghisò, Gibsons, Ginger Fox Ltd., H. P. Gibson & Sons, HABA, Hearth & Hand with Magnolia, Holzinsel, House of Marbles, Innovakids GmbH, James Industries, Inc., John Adams (IDEAL), John Dewar & Sons Ltd, Joseph Huber, Jumbo, Kärnan, Kikkado Design, Kikkerland, Klee, Klutz Press, KO, Lakeside, Lifetime Games, Lord Zigaretten, Majora, Marks & Spencer, Melissa & Doug, Merit, Milton Bradley, Monkey Pod Games, Noris Spiele, O Schoenhut & Co. Inc., Palet Miro, Palet spil, Papita, Pelikan, Peri Spiele, Peter Pan Playthings, Piatnik, Pier 1 Imports, Pin International, Planet Finska, Playtoy Industries, Plaza Mfg. Co., Pressman Toy Corp., Printworks, Rozelle, Schmidt Spiele, Schylling, Spear's Games, Spółdzielnia Pracy im. Stanisława Dubois, Steven Manuf. Co., Sundry Products, Tactic, Unikatoy, Viacom International, Whitman, Woodstock Spiele, WWF
Designer
(Uncredited)
Artist
Pieter Woudt
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
4,892owners
59wishlist
4want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
What is the recommended age for Pick Up Sticks?
The game is super versatile! It's generally recommended for children aged 5 and up, but the fun is guaranteed for players of any age who enjoy a dexterity challenge.
How many players can participate?
Pick Up Sticks is great for groups! It accommodates 2 to 6 players, making it perfect for family gatherings or playing with friends.
How long does a game last?
Games are quite fast, usually lasting between 10 to 30 minutes. You can play multiple rounds without getting tired!
Is the game very complicated to learn?
Not at all! The rules are super simple: pick up one stick without disturbing the others. It's more about manual skill than complex rules.
What are the game components?
The game comes with a bunch of colored sticks and a special black stick, which is used as a tool to pick up the others. Usually, everything comes in practical packaging, like a tube.
Is it a game based more on luck or skill?
It's a mix! Manual skill is fundamental to avoid knocking over the sticks, but luck also plays a role in choosing which color to pick and whether you can get it without incident.
Is Pick Up Sticks good for someone who has never played board games?
Absolutely! Because it's easy to learn and quick, it's an excellent starting point for those new to the world of board games.
Other Games You'll Like
Based on mechanics and theme
