World Series of Yahtzee Preview

World Series of Yahtzee puts a new spin on an old favorite

EA Mobile is rolling out a free-to-play version of everybody’s favorite “dice in a cup” game – Yahtzee! But “this is not your grandmother’s Yahtzee,” as the game puts it – instead, World Series of Yahtzee challenges players to see who can roll the best score in 90 seconds. Players can go head-to-head against Facebook friends or square off against random strangers by way of the game’s “Guest Mode.”

Power-ups can be purchased with “coins” that are earned by scoring well in the game, and that can also be purchased in lots ranging from 99 cents to 99 dollars. These power-ups give players an edge over their opponents with things like hints, extra time, a bonus die or a “Turbo Roll” that lets them throw the dice with blazing speed. Two power-ups can be used per game, with an optional third power-up slot available for purchase.

The controls are simple and the board layout is clean and functional, and although the hard-rock soundtrack may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s easy enough to switch off if it’s not to your liking. Gamers looking for a “real” Yahtzee fix may be a little disappointed, but the fast, simple gameplay makes this the kind of Yahtzee you can play just about anywhere, at any time.

The free-to-play World Series of Yahtzee is expected to hit iOS soon.

Andy Chalk

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Long-time PC gamer and shorter-time freelance writer, with work at Gamezebo, The Escapist, PC Gamer, Joystiq and parts unknown. Owner of many cats, drinker of fine beers, eater of too much. A steadfast javelin in a flaccid world.