The Jumanji Board Game Rules (Explained)

Adventure Board Games / By
jumanji board game box

Curious about the Jumanji Board Game Rules? This game, packed with adventure and mystery, has captured imaginations for years. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the rules, strategies, and the thrilling world of Jumanji. Ready to roll the dice and dive into the jungle?

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Origins and Evolution of Jumanji

The journey of Jumanji began with a children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, which later inspired hit movies. These adaptations brought the game to life, leading to the creation of physical board games that allowed fans to experience the thrill of Jumanji in their living rooms.

Over the years, Jumanji has evolved, incorporating elements from its cinematic counterparts to enhance the gaming experience.

As Jumanji’s popularity soared, various versions of the game emerged, each adding unique twists and features. From classic editions reminiscent of the original story to modern versions with digital components, Jumanji has continually reinvented itself to captivate new generations of players.

Understanding the Jumanji Board Game

The goal is to reach the center of the board and shout “Jumanji!” to win, but only after successfully completing a final challenge.

Players: 2 – 4.

Ages: 8 years and up.

Playing Time: 30 – 60 minutes.

This is based on the description of the original board game. Alternative versions may differ.

Game Components

  1. Game Board: Depicts the Jumanji jungle.
  2. Dice: Used to move around the board.
  3. Pawns: Represent players on the board.
  4. Danger Cards: Feature various challenges.
  5. Rhino Figure: Can block players’ paths.
  6. Timer: Used for certain challenges.
  7. Jumanji Decoder: Reveals hidden messages on cards.

Setup

  • Place the game board in the center.
  • Each player selects a pawn and places it at the start.
  • Shuffle the danger cards and place them on the board.
  • Place the rhino figure and timer within easy reach.

Game Play Step by Step

StepInstruction
1.Each player selects one pawn and one rescue die. Prepare the game board by shuffling the danger cards and placing them face down.
2.Players roll the number die and advance their pawn along the path of their color.
3.On landing on a blank space, draw a danger card and use the decoder to read it.
4.Start the hourglass timer. Other players attempt to rescue you by rolling their rescue die.
5.To be rescued, all players must roll either an hourglass symbol or the symbol matching the drawn danger card.
6.If rescued, stay on the current space. If not, move your pawn back as indicated by the number on the danger card.
7.Landing on a “wait for five or eight spaces” requires each player to attempt a rescue by rolling a five or eight. If unsuccessful, move back one space and repeat until rescued or returned to the start.
8.On a Jungle space, draw a danger card and read it with the decoder. Flip the timer. Players must roll the symbol on the Jungle space or an hourglass symbol to save themselves.
9.If all players roll the hourglass or the card symbol, everyone is safe. Otherwise, add the card to the Doomsday Grid and keep drawing cards until safety is achieved.
10.Continue the rescue process, rolling the correct symbol or hourglass, to ensure everyone’s safety. Repeat steps as necessary.
11.Place a rhino in any rhino space. If you land on a space with a rhino, you’re blocked until rolling an even number or another player moves the rhino.
12.The game ends for all players if the Doomsday Grid is completely filled.
13.If players simultaneously reach the center, the first to shout “Jumanji” wins the game.

Each turn will provide new riddles and challenges to solve!

Buy Jumanji on Amazon

The Jumanji board is a map of a dense jungle, with paths leading to the center. Each space represents a potential challenge or a step closer to victory.

As players move their pawns, they encounter four different types of spaces, each with its own set of rules. Some spaces might trigger events, unleash challenges, or offer shortcuts. Understanding the board’s layout is crucial for developing effective strategies.

Type of SpaceQuick Rules
Blank SpacesOther players must try to rescue you by rolling the hourglass
or matching the symbol on the danger card.
Wait for 5 or 8 SpacesMove back space by space until another player rolls a 5 or 8.
Rhino SpacesYou may place the Rhino to block another pawn.
Jungle SpacesAll players (including you) are trapped in the jungle.
Draw a Danger card.

The Doomsday Grid

Danger cards are placed on the doomsday grid. They represent dangers taking over the town and are added as the game progresses.

Players must avoid filling up the grid completely as when this happens ALL players lose!

Teamwork and Collaboration: Although Jumanji is a competitive game, it also encourages teamwork. Players often find themselves needing to cooperate to overcome particularly tough challenges. This aspect of the game fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared adventure.

Role of Dice in Jumanji

Dice rolls in Jumanji determine the fate of players, dictating their movement and the challenges they face. While luck plays a part, players can also use strategic thinking to mitigate the impact of unfavorable rolls.

Understanding the probabilities associated with dice rolls can give players an edge. By analyzing the likelihood of different outcomes, players can make more informed decisions and plan their moves more effectively.

Jumanji Board Game Versions

The Jumanji Board game was first released in 1995 by the Milton Bradley Company. New versions of the game have been released since then including:

  • Second Edition (2017). Features new riddles to solve.
  • Additional language versions include Spanish and German.
  • Travel Version. A smaller version is designed for two players.
  • Delux game, electronic version.
  • Escape Room Game.
  • Jumanji 3 The Next Level.

There are no expansions to the original Jumanji board game. All of the versions above are stand-alone games that can be played without needing the original.

Jumanji Game Accessories

As you might expect from a huge franchise, various Jumanji accessories are available, from themed dice to custom pawns. These add-ons enhance the visual appeal and immersion of the game.

There are also accessories like keychains, based on the board game.

Jumanji Tournaments

For those looking for a competitive edge, Jumanji tournaments offer a platform to test skills against others. Organizing a tournament can be a thrilling way to engage with the game on a deeper level.

The competitive scene of Jumanji is growing, with players around the world coming together to showcase their mastery of the game. This adds an exciting dimension to the Jumanji community.

Final Thoughts

The legacy of Jumanji is a testament to its unique appeal and the joy it brings to players around the world. As we close the chapter on our exploration of Jumanji game rules, we invite you to roll the dice and embark on your own adventure in this magical world.

FAQs

What is a lucky roll in Jumanji?

In Jumanji, a lucky roll happens when a player lands on a Jungle Space by rolling a 5 or 8. The player to their left rolls the die—if it’s a 5 or 8, both stay put. Otherwise, the player moves back one space, and the rolling continues until a 5 or 8 is rolled.

What does the Rhino mean in Jumanji?

The Rhino is used to block other players in the Jumanji board game. It can be placed in front of an opponent if you land on a Rhino space.

What do the challenge dice do in Jumanji?

In the Jumanji board game the challenge dice ar used to introduce various obstacles including physical and mental skills like riddles.

How do you get past the Rhino in Jumanji?

If a Rhino is blocking you, roll an even number to move past it and return the Rhino to its base. Roll an odd and unfortunately, the Rhino still blocks you.

Scroll to Top