NKO DICE is an adaptation of a traditional Japanese dice game Chinchirorin. The game features graphics that recreate the atmosphere of a post-war Japanese gambling hall, along with traditional Japanese music.
Players roll five dice, each with six Japanese characters (MA, O, CHI, N, U, and KO) on its faces. The goal is to form combinations of these characters that spell out vulgar Japanese slang terms, such as 'UNKO', 'UNCHI', 'CHINKO', 'OMANKO', and 'OCHINCHIN'. Forming combinations of three or more matching characters applies multipliers to the player's score, though rolling three or more 'N' characters results in a negative multiplier. The 'nudge' system allows players to selectively re-roll certain dice, adding an element of strategy as they try to complete these word combinations.
The game offers both competitive and casual gameplay. Players can compete for high scores on an online leaderboard, adding a sense of challenge and rivalry. Alternatively, the 'viewing mode' enables players to simply watch the dice roll gracefully, without the need for active participation.
Despite the straightforward rules, the gameplay features surprising depth. The nudge system introduces strategic decision-making, as players must decide which dice to re-roll to improve their combinations. Additionally, remembering the six Japanese characters on the dice faces provides a light educational component.
One of the game's standout features is its aesthetic and atmosphere. The graphics recreate the ambiance of a post-war Japanese gambling hall, while the traditional Japanese music further enhances the immersive experience. The contrast between the refined setting and the vulgar word combinations is noted as an engaging and thought-provoking aspect of the gameplay.