A wild mix of luck, skill, and sneaky auctions, Tough Luck! is a classic game from the 80s where anything can happen. With a Ball-a-matic machine, a mix of coloured balls, and money flying around the table, this game turns every round into a tense bid for control. You’ll need a sharp eye, a quick hand, and a ruthless streak to outplay your rivals and claim the £60,000 prize pot.
How to Play
Each player starts with £60,000 and a game board numbered 1 to 25. The aim is to be the first to complete a straight line of 5 balls – vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. But it’s not just luck: it’s about playing smart.
In the early rounds, players draw balls and place them on their boards if they match the drawn number. But as the game shifts into stage two, it’s auction time. Numbered balls, jokers (red balls), and even penalties (black balls) come into play. Every draw could cost you money, gain you power, or flip the game on its head.
Trading is allowed, but the final winning move has to come from a blind auction. That’s where the pressure really hits.
Why Rent
Tough Luck! is a brilliant game to bring to the table when you're after something a bit different. It mixes luck and strategy in a way that feels unpredictable and exciting. The old-school Ball-a-matic adds a unique tactile twist you won’t find in modern games, and the money mechanics keep everyone engaged right up to the final move. Perfect for adults and older kids who love games with tension, bluffing, and just a little bit of chaos.
