How to Play 10,000 (Farkle): Rules, Scoring & Variations

10,000 (also called Farkle, Zilch, Dix Mille) is a push-your-luck dice game for 2+ players.

Goal

First to 10,000 points wins.

Equipment

6 standard six-sided dice; scorepad.

Scoring Combinations (Standard)

Turn Flow

1. Roll all 6 dice.
2. Set aside at least one scoring die/combo (mandatory).
3. Choose: Bank points → end turn, OR re-roll remaining dice for more.
4. If re-roll yields zero scoring dice → FARKLE: lose all points this turn, turn ends.
5. If all 6 dice score → "Hot Dice": roll all 6 again (optional, continues turn).
6. First turn: must bank ≥ 300 (or 500/1000 house rule) to "get on the board."

Common Variations

• Welfare: Next player can take farkled dice and continue for the points.
• Team Play: Partners combine scores.
• Progressive Threshold: Minimum bank increases each round.

Strategy Tips

• Early game: take risks to get on board fast.
• Mid game: bank at 300–500 if behind; push if ahead.
• Late game: calculate exact needed points; avoid farkle when close.
• Track opponents' scores—pressure them into risky rolls.

Simple rules, brutal tension. Perfect for bars, campfires, or family night.