How to Play (Scoring)

The game is played with 8 dice: 6 circular discs and 2 animal effigies (Totems).

• 8 Alike: 8 Points (All White or All Black)
• 7 Alike: 3 Points (Except if the odd one out is a Turtle)
• 7 Alike (Turtle is Odd): 5 Points
• 6 Alike: 1 Point (Except if Totems are the odd ones)
• 6 Alike (Turtle is Odd): 5 Points
• 6 Alike (Horse is Odd): 10 Points
• 6 Alike (Both Totems are Odd): 10 Points

Winning score is usually agreed upon before play. In this version, you play until one team holds all the counting sticks (15 total).

Origin & Purpose

Gwzege'wen (Bowl and Dice) is a traditional game given to the Potawatomi women to help the people heal and connect. It is predominantly played in the winter (Bbon) during social gatherings. While often played for fun or small stakes, it historically served as a way to redistribute goods within the community and resolve conflicts peacefully.

The Teams (Moiety System)

Potawatomi society is divided into two halves or moieties, determined by birth order. This creates a natural balance in the community and in games.
• Shkesh (Blue): Represents the First-born children.
• Kishko (Red): Represents the Second-born children.

The Clans (Bowl Designs)

The Potawatomi are organized into clans (Dodem) named after animals. These clans determine social roles and kinship.
• Mko (Bear): Known for strength and healing (Police/Medicine).
• Kno (Eagle): Known for vision and connection to the Creator.
• Mo'e (Wolf): Known for hunting and pathfinding.
• Mishike (Turtle): Represents the earth and longevity.
• Chekwa (Thunder): Represents fire and renewal.
• Gigo (Fish): Represents water and life.
• Weshke (Bird): The spiritual leaders and messengers.

The Pieces (Yuhyouhtchechick)

A traditional set includes 8 pieces carved from bone, antler, or fruit pits.
• 6 Circular Discs: The standard counters.
• 2 Effigies (Totems): Carved to represent animals, often a Turtle and a Horse (or sometimes Bear/Eagle). These pieces are special; when they land differently than the rest, they score higher points.

Language

• Onagen: Bowl
• Dodem: Clan
• Mno-bama: Good luck
• Wé ni je?: Who is it? (Who is playing?)
• Wédzégêk: Players (Those who play)
• Mamen: Mind/Thought (Computer Player)

Information adapted from Citizen Potawatomi Nation cultural resources.