Up To Fifty

Here's a game to drive your family and friends crazy.

The object is to be the first one to reach 50 (there is an example below).

Two people participate. Each person picks a number from 1 to 6.

The sum of the numbers is kept until somebody reaches 50.

It's a good idea to record the sums as you play so you don't lose track.

Here's how to win every time.

Select your numbers so that when they are added to your opponent's number,

the sum is 8, then 15, then 22, then 29, then 36, then 43.

If you reach 43, there's no way that your opponent can win.

Here's an example which should better explain what I'm referring to.

Your opponent's numbers are red, yours are green, and the sum is blue.

2 + 6 = 8 + 3 + 4 = 15 + 6 + 1 = 22 + 2 + 5 = 29 + 4 + 3 = 36 + 5 + 2 = 43 + 1 + 6 = 50.

You won!

Notice that once you reach 8, all you have to do is select the number which,

when added to your opponent's number, will produce the sum of 7. (Red + green = 7.)

Be careful if your opponent says, "You may go first."