Representative miniature pig dice, score sheet and travel cup on a festive game table
Representative illustration — check the listing for the exact item.

XmasGoat gift guide

Curated pick

Pass the Pigs

A pocket-size push-your-luck game where two pig dice land in wonderfully unlikely poses.

Pass the Pigs turns two tiny pig figures into a funny push-your-luck game. See who will enjoy it, how it plays and which version to buy.

$15–$25Board games
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Reviewed by XmasGoat Editorial · Updated

Why Pass the Pigs works as a Christmas gift

Pass the Pigs wins people over before the rules are even explained: the dice are two miniature rubber pigs. Their ridiculous landing poses score different amounts, turning each toss into equal parts luck, comedy and temptation.

  • The miniature pig dice make the game funny before it begins
  • Simple stop-or-roll-again turns are easy to teach
  • Pigs and scoring supplies fit inside the travel case

Who should receive Pass the Pigs?

  • A great choice for: families and casual players ages seven and up.
  • A great choice for: travel, restaurant tables and short gaps between holiday plans.
  • A funny stocking gift for: someone who enjoys luck, risk and cheering at absurd outcomes.
  • Choose something larger for: homes with small children or pets that might swallow the pigs.

The verdict

Silly enough to gift, clever enough to keep

Classic Pass the Pigs is funny on sight, teaches in minutes and contains a real decision beneath the silliness. The unusual scoring poses take a round or two to learn, but the chart handles most questions. It is an excellent small gift for families, travellers and anyone who believes their luck will hold for just one more toss.

Why it works

  • The miniature pig dice make the game funny before it begins
  • Simple stop-or-roll-again turns are easy to teach
  • Pigs and scoring supplies fit inside the travel case

Tradeoffs

  • The tiny pigs are easy to lose and unsafe for mouths or pets
  • Unusual landings sometimes require a look at the scoring chart

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What to check before buying Pass the Pigs

  • Look for classic Pass the Pigs. Big Pigs, Pig Party, Barnyard or Bust and compact tuck-box versions differ in size, pieces or play.
  • The current classic set is for two or more players, ages seven and up. It includes two pig dice, a score pad, scoring chart, pencil, instructions and the plastic carrying case.
  • The first player to 100 points wins. Toss both pigs, add the score and choose whether to save those points or roll again.
  • A Pig Out loses the points earned during that turn. If the pigs touch in an Oinker, the player loses their entire saved score, so knowing when to stop really matters.
  • Keep the scoring chart nearby for poses such as Trotter, Snouter and Leaning Jowler. If a pig balances strangely, use the official picture rather than debating from memory.
  • The pigs and pencil are small. Follow the warning on the package, supervise children and count both pigs back into the closed case before putting the game away.

Pass the Pigs FAQs

How many people can play Pass the Pigs?

Classic Pass the Pigs is made for two or more players, ages seven and up. The publisher does not list a maximum, although a very large group means a longer wait between turns.

What is the difference between Pig Out and Oinker?

A Pig Out loses only the points collected during the current turn. An Oinker happens when the pigs touch and wipes out everything that player has saved in the game.

What comes in the classic Pig Sty case?

The current set includes two pig dice, a score pad, scoring guide, one pencil, instructions and the plastic carrying case with its lid. Older or regional boxes may vary slightly.

Are Big Pigs the same game?

Big Pigs uses much larger foam pigs, which are easier to see and handle but far less portable. Check that separate box for its exact rules and contents.

Keep exploring gift ideas

Compare nearby recipients, budgets and products before making the final call.

As an Amazon Associate, XmasGoat earns from qualifying purchases. Prices, sellers and availability can change. Choose Canada or the United States for local pricing.

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