Mikado: Mastering the Art of this Classic Game with Winning Strategies, Rules, and How-to-Play

Introduction

As a board and card games enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the simplicity and complexity of Mikado. This game, also known as Pick Up Sticks, originated in Europe and has been a favorite pastime for many generations. Mikado is a game of skill and strategy, requiring a steady hand and a keen eye.

As the alternative name suggests, the game is played with a set of sticks, each with a specific point value. The objective is to pick up the highest number of points without moving any other sticks. The game’s name, Mikado, comes from the highest scoring stick in the game, which is traditionally painted in a striped pattern. I find it to be a game that requires a bit of dexterity, putting it alongside similar games like Jenga and Kerplunk.

Rules for Playing Mikado

The official rules for Mikado are quite straightforward. The game begins with all the sticks being held in the hand and dropped onto the table. Players then take turns trying to remove a stick from the pile without moving any other sticks. If a stick other than the one being removed is moved, the turn ends and no points are scored. The game continues until all the sticks have been picked up. The player with the highest score wins.

There are also many variations of Mikado, with different ‘house rules’. For example, some people play with a rule where if you move a stick, you lose points instead of just ending your turn. This adds an extra level of challenge to the game.

How Do You Play Mikado

Setup

The game setup is simple. All the sticks are held in the hand and then dropped onto the table. The sticks should fall randomly, creating a pile.

Gameplay

Players take turns trying to remove a stick from the pile without moving any other sticks. The sticks are removed one at a time, and the player must declare which stick they are attempting to remove before they make their move.

End of the Game

The game ends when all the sticks have been removed from the pile. The player with the highest score, calculated by adding up the point values of the sticks they have collected, wins the game.

How to Win at Mikado

Winning at Mikado requires a combination of skill, strategy, and a little bit of luck. Here are some strategies that can help you win:

1. Focus on the high-value sticks: The Mikado stick, which is worth 20 points, can be a game-changer. If you can successfully pick up this stick, you will have a significant advantage.
2. Be patient: As I mentioned earlier, patience is key in Mikado. Take your time to study the pile and plan your moves carefully.
3. Practice your technique: The more you play the game, the better you will get at it. Practice your technique to improve your precision and control.

Best Strategies for Playing Mikado Game

Here are some of the best strategies for playing Mikado:

1. Start from the top: It’s usually easier to remove the sticks that are on top of the pile. Starting from the top can help you avoid moving other sticks.
2. Use a light touch: The lighter your touch, the less likely you are to move other sticks. Try to pick up the sticks gently and carefully.
3. Plan your moves: Before you make a move, take a moment to study the pile and plan your strategy. Think about which sticks you want to remove and in what order.

Scenarios for Mikado

There are many different scenarios that can occur in a game. Here are some common ones and how to handle them:

1. You move a stick: If you move a stick other than the one you’re trying to remove, your turn ends. Don’t let this discourage you. Stay focused and try again on your next turn.
2. You’re behind in points: If you’re behind in points, don’t panic. Remember, the game isn’t over until all the sticks have been picked up. Focus on picking up the high-value sticks to catch up.
3. You’re ahead in points: If you’re ahead in points, don’t get complacent. Keep playing strategically to maintain your lead.

Frequently Asked Questions about Playing Mikado Game

1. Q: How many sticks are there in a game of Mikado?
   A: There are usually 31 sticks in a game of Mikado, each with a different point value.
2. Q: What happens if I move a stick?
   A: If you move a stick other than the one you’re trying to remove, your turn ends and you don’t score any points for that turn.
3. Q: Can I use both hands to remove a stick?
   A: According to the official rules, you can only use one hand to remove a stick.
4. Q: What is the highest scoring stick in Mikado?
   A: The highest scoring stick in Mikado is the Mikado stick, which is worth 20 points.
5. Q: How long does a game of Mikado usually last?
   A: A game of Mikado usually lasts about 20 minutes, but it can be longer or shorter depending on the number of players and their skill level.

External Links

For more information about Mikado, you can check out some gameplay and review videos on YouTube

DIY Mikado pick up sticks game