Skull

Lui-même, Boardgame Space, Brain Games · Board game · 2011
3–6 · best 5 15–45 min Weight 1.1/5
7.4 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
How to Play Buy · from US$ 16.79
7.4 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love outwitting your friends with clever bluffs and daring calls, Skull is an absolute must-play. It's a masterclass in social deduction where the tension builds with every disc placed.

Highlights
  • Pure, unadulterated bluffing fun
  • Simple rules, deep strategy
  • Engaging player interaction
  • Quick to learn, satisfying to master
Keep in mind
  • Requires a good poker face
  • Less engaging with quiet groups
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
Access Rules Guide
About the game
Skull is the quintessential bluffing game, where the real battle unfolds in the players' minds. Each participant starts with a set of discs, typically three roses and one skull. In each round, players place one disc face down in front of them. Then, in clockwise order, each player can choose to add another disc to their pile or initiate a bid. The bid involves declaring how many discs you can flip, starting with your own, revealing only roses. Other players can then raise this bid, claiming they can flip even more discs without encountering a skull. The player who makes the highest bid becomes the challenger. They must then flip the number of discs they promised, starting with their own and then choosing discs from opponents' piles. If they manage to flip only roses, they win the round and score a point. If, however, they reveal a skull at any point, they lose the round and one of their discs is permanently removed from the game. The first player to win two rounds is crowned the master bluffer. Skull is not a game of luck; it's a duel of poker faces and the ability to deceive, where reading opponents is crucial. Editions like Skull & Roses Red introduce minor variations, such as allowing each player to control two "biker gangs," but the core dynamic remains the same. Skull sets can be combined for games with more than six players, expanding the fun.
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Skull English · PDF
Download PDF
BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 REC
5 BEST
6 BEST
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Game details

Families

Components: Drink Coasters Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Holidays: Day of the Dead
Publisher Lui-même, Boardgame Space, Brain Games, DiceTree Games, Galápagos Jogos, Geekach LLC
Designer Hervé Marly
Artist Rose Kipik, Thomas Vuarchex
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended minimum age to play Skull?
Skull is a very accessible game and is generally recommended for players aged 8 and up, but slightly younger children who already grasp the concept of bluffing can have a lot of fun.
Is Skull a game of luck or strategy?
Definitely more strategy! While there's a small element of luck in the initial setup, the game is all about bluffing, reading opponents, and risk management. It's a true test of your poker face.
How long does a game of Skull last?
Games are quite quick, usually between 15 and 45 minutes. It's ideal for filling a short gap or playing multiple rounds back-to-back.
How many players can participate in a game of Skull?
The base game supports 3 to 6 players. If you have two boxes of Skull, you can combine the components to play with more people, increasing the chaos and fun!
Are Skull's components of good quality?
Yes! Skull is known for its robust, high-quality thick cardboard discs, which resemble coasters. They are durable and have a great tactile feel.
Is Skull a good game for board game beginners?
Absolutely! Its rules are simple to explain and understand, making it an excellent gateway into the world of board games, especially for those who enjoy interaction and bluffing.