Kinito Drinking Game: The Dice Bluffing Challenge for 21 Points

If you’re looking for a new party game that combines dice, bluffing, and a whole lot of fun, look no further than Kinito. This fast-paced drinking game brings out your sneaky side as you try to bluff your way to victory (or trick your friends into drinking). Now, grab your dice, pour some drinks, and let’s dive into the rules, strategies, and everything you need to know to become a Kinito master!

How to Play Kinito Drinking Game

Ready to jump in? The beauty of Kinito lies in its simplicity: all you need are two dice, a few friends, and something to cover the dice rolls. Whether you’re hosting a small get-together or a raucous party, Kinito is perfect for any occasion. Let’s break down the basics so you can get started.

Game Setup

Before the games (and drinks) begin, here’s what you’ll need:

• Players: At least two, but the more, the merrier!
• Two Dice: Regular six-sided dice work best.
• Cups: Something to cover the dice with. You can also use your hands, but cups keep it mysterious.
• Drinks: Sangria is the traditional beverage, but anything works.

Rolling and Bluffing in Kinito

In Kinito, each player rolls the dice and keeps the result hidden, then they announce a number—but here’s the catch: they can either be honest or totally bluff. The next player has to decide, “Do I trust this liar, or are they messing with me?” It’s all about out-bluffing your friends and dodging drinks while trying not to get caught in your own web of lies. 

Kinito Game Rules Explained

1. How the Game Starts

Players sit in a circle, and the game moves clockwise. Each player takes turns rolling two dice, but they keep the result hidden by covering it with a cup or basket. The player then announces a number to the group, but here’s the twist—they can either tell the truth or bluff.

2. Trust or Call the Bluff?

The next player has to decide: do they believe the announced number? If they trust it, they must call a number that is equal to or higher than the one just announced. For example, if the first player claims an 8, the next player has to say 8 or higher.

But if they doubt the claim, they can lift the cup and reveal the dice:

• If the dice show a number equal to or higher than the claim, the doubter drinks.
• If the dice reveal a lower number, the original roller drinks.

After someone drinks, the next player rolls, and the game continues.

3. Scoring in Kinito

The goal of Kinito is to reach 21 points by bluffing successfully and making others drink. Just like the 21 drinking game, If a player reaches 21, the player can create a new rule or cancel an existing one.

1. Basic Rolls (Non-Doubles)

• For rolls that are not doubles, your score is the sum of the two dice. 
• For example: If you roll a 3 and a 5, your score is 8 points. The possible point range for non-doubles is 4 to 11 points. Keep playing and adding up scores until someone reaches 21 points and wins.

2. Doubles

• Rolling doubles is a big advantage. Doubles always beat any non-double roll of the same value. 
• For example: Rolling double 4’s gives you 8 points, but it outranks any regular roll of 8. Bluffing with doubles can also give you a big boost. If your bluff with doubles succeeds, you get double the points for that roll. So, rolling double 4’s would give you 16 points if the bluff stands.

3. Kinito Rolls

• A Kinito roll is a special combination, usually 1 and 2 (or sometimes 5 and 6, depending on house rules). Unlike regular rolls, Kinito doesn’t award any points. Instead, it triggers a special sequence.

4. What Happens When You Roll a Kinito

When a player rolls a Kinito, they must reveal the dice immediately—no bluffing here! The roller then places the basket (or cup) on another player’s head. This initiates the Kinito challenge:

• The chosen player has three chances to roll their own Kinito.
• If they fail, they drink.
• If they succeed, they pass the basket to someone else.

This process continues until someone fails to roll a Kinito. That player then has to drink a number of drinks equal to the total number of Kinitos rolled during the sequence.

Kinito vs. Liar’s Dice: Dice Bluffing Game Comparison

1. Number of Dice

• Kinito: Played with just 2 dice. Simple, fast, and easy to keep track of, focusing on quick rounds and immediate bluffing.
• Liar’s Dice: Each player starts with 5 dice, making it more complex. The bluffing here involves estimating the total dice rolled across the table, adding a layer of strategy.

2. Penalties

• Kinito: Penalties are all about drinking. If you’re caught bluffing or fail a challenge, you drink. It’s a straightforward and hilarious consequence for getting caught.
• Liar’s Dice: There’s no inherent drinking penalty, but you lose dice if you’re caught bluffing. The game gradually eliminates players as they run out of dice.

3. Game Pace

• Kinito: Super fast-paced. Each round ends quickly with a drink, and the goal is to be the first to 21 points. Expect rapid turns, lots of bluffing, and plenty of drinks.
• Liar’s Dice: Slower-paced due to the higher dice count and strategic betting. The game takes longer as players lose dice, making it more drawn-out and tactical.

So, if you’re after fast-paced party fun and quick laughs, Kinito is your game. But if you prefer a longer, more strategic challenge, Liar’s Dice is the better choice. Another great option is Mexicali, a bluffing game that revolves around the lucky dice combo of “21,” though it comes with a completely different set of rules!

Tips and Strategies for Winning at Kinito

Kinito isn’t just about luck; there’s some skill involved too. If you want to win, you’ll need to master the art of bluffing and learn how to read your opponents.

Mastering the Art of Bluffing

The key to a good bluff is confidence. If you act suspiciously or hesitate when announcing your roll, people will catch on quickly. Be bold! A straight face and a calm voice can make even the wildest bluff believable. Just don’t get caught, or you’ll be the one drinking.

Reading Your Opponents

Keep an eye on how your friends behave during their turn. Do they fidget or avoid eye contact? These could be telltale signs that they’re bluffing. Some players are easier to read than others, so pay attention and call out bluffs when you sense weakness.

Now that you’re armed with all the knowledge you need, it’s time to gather your friends, roll the dice, and let the bluffing (and drinking) begin! Just remember—whether you’re bluffing your way to victory or laughing as your friends try to outsmart each other, Kinito is guaranteed to bring the fun to any party.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kinito