LCR rules
What you need
- Three LCR dice, or three ordinary dice (1 = L, 2 = C, 3 = R, 4–6 = dot)
- Three chips per player: poker chips, coins or candy
- A cup or bowl in the middle for the center pot
Playing a turn
- Roll one die for each chip you have, up to three.
- L: pass one chip to the player on your left.
- R: pass one chip to the player on your right.
- C: put one chip in the center. Those chips are out of play.
- Dot: keep that chip.
- Play passes to the left.
Out of chips
A player with no chips skips their turn but stays at the table. Chips passed to them bring them back into the game.
Winning
The game ends when only one player has any chips left. That player wins everything in the center. Many families play for quarters or dollar bills; for kids, candy works just as well.
Variations
- Wild LCR: some sets have a wild face that lets you take a chip from any player.
- More chips: start with five chips each for a longer game.
Why everyone loves LCR
There are no decisions, so a five-year-old and a grandparent have exactly the same chance. Games take ten minutes, the chips change hands constantly and nobody is out for long. It's a staple at holidays, family reunions and white elephant parties.
Looking for a game with a bit more choice? Try Farkle or Shut the Box. For a big group, Bunco is the classic.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play Left Right Center?
Everyone starts with three chips. On your turn, roll one die for each chip you have, up to three. For each L, pass a chip to the player on your left; for each R, to the player on your right; for each C, put a chip in the center. Dots mean you keep that chip. The last player with chips wins the center pot.
What happens when you run out of chips in LCR?
You're not out yet. You skip your turns, but if a neighbor rolls an L or R you get a chip back and start rolling again.
How many dice do you roll in LCR?
One per chip, but never more than three. With two chips you roll two dice; with one chip, one die.
Is LCR a game of skill?
No, it's pure luck: there are no decisions to make. That's why it's popular with families and big mixed groups.
How many people can play LCR?
Three or more. It's best with five to ten players around a table.
What are the dice like?
Each LCR die has three letter faces, L, C and R, and three faces with a dot. Ordinary dice work too: 1 = L, 2 = C, 3 = R, and 4, 5 and 6 count as dots.