Sevens, elevens, and doubles

Sevens, elevens, and doubles is a popular drinking game that involves participants taking turns to roll two six-sided dice in quick succession. The game is known for its simple rules and the rapid pace at which it is played, making it a favorite at parties and social gatherings. The objective of the game is to avoid rolling certain combinations that would require the player to drink or perform specific actions.

Rules

The basic rules of Sevens, elevens, and doubles are straightforward. Players sit around a table, and the game begins with a player rolling the dice. The critical rolls that have specific consequences are:

• Seven: If the player rolls a total of seven, they must take a drink.
• Eleven: Rolling an eleven also prompts the player to drink.
• Doubles: If the player rolls doubles, they can choose another player to drink.

The game continues in a clockwise direction, with each player taking turns to roll the dice. If a player fails to roll one of the significant combinations, the dice move to the next player. However, the rapid pace and the drinking involved can lead to increased difficulty as the game progresses.

Variations

Several variations of Sevens, elevens, and doubles exist, with some versions introducing additional rules or penalties to increase the game's complexity and fun. For example, some variations include:

• Rules that require players to perform specific actions before rolling the dice, such as touching the table or saying a phrase.
• Penalties for players who hesitate or break the flow of the game, often resulting in the need to take additional drinks.
• The introduction of "social" rolls, where specific dice combinations require all players to drink.

Strategy

While largely a game of chance, players can employ minimal strategies in Sevens, elevens, and doubles. These might include choosing the player who appears most affected by the alcohol when rolling doubles or attempting to control the dice roll to avoid the critical numbers. However, the influence of strategy is minimal compared to the randomness of the dice rolls.

Cultural Impact

Sevens, elevens, and doubles has become a staple in the drinking game culture, known for its ability to involve all participants actively and its ease of setup. It requires no special equipment beyond a pair of dice and some form of drink, making it accessible to a wide audience. The game's popularity has led to its inclusion in various compilations of drinking games and its mention in popular culture.

Safety Considerations

As with all drinking games, participants are encouraged to play Sevens, elevens, and doubles responsibly. The rapid pace and the drinking involved can quickly lead to excessive alcohol consumption. Players should monitor their intake and ensure a safe environment for all participants.