Dimension is a fast-paced puzzle game. Stack different coloured balls to match a randomly drawn set of rule cards — all against a ticking timer. It tests quick thinking, problem solving, and composure under pressure. Play solo or with up to 4 players simultaneously.
Want our full thoughts? Read our Dimension Review.
Note: These simplified rules are to help you decide if the game is right for you, or to get started quickly — not to be all-encompassing.
Overview
Your goal in Dimension is to build a pyramid of coloured balls according to the active rule cards. The game runs for 6 rounds, each about 1 minute long. You score points for every ball in your pyramid and lose points for every rule you break.
The rules are simple enough that the overview above is almost the entire game — the tricky part is executing under pressure.
Setup
Building Your Pyramid
Stack your balls in three layers: 7 on the bottom, 3 in the middle, 1 on top. You must follow all active rule cards while building — within the time limit.
Rule Card Types
There are five types of rules. A reference cheat sheet is included in the box.
Type 1
Position Rules
Restrict which colours can sit on top of or beneath other colours.
Example: "Orange cannot be on top of any colour" + "No colour can be on top of orange" — these contradict, so you'll have to choose which to break.
Type 2
Greater Than Rules
You must have more of one colour than another.
Example: "Must have more Orange than Black." Tip: exclude a colour entirely to satisfy this rule easily.
Type 3
Sum Rules
Two colours must add up to a specific total.
Example: "Orange + Blue = 4." Any combination works: 2+2, 3+1, 4+0.
Type 4
Touching Rules
Certain colours must (or must not) be touching each other. If a colour is in your pyramid, it must satisfy the touching rule for every ball of that colour.
Example: "Blue must touch Blue." If you have 2 blue balls, they must be adjacent.
Type 5
Total Number Rules
You must use a specific quantity of a particular colour.
Example: "Exactly 2 Orange." No more, no fewer.
Key tip: You can choose to leave a colour out of your pyramid entirely — this often helps you satisfy rules rather than break them.
Scoring Each Round
Once the timer runs out, no more balls can be added.
| What happened | Points |
|---|---|
| Each ball in your pyramid | +1 |
| Each rule broken | −2 |
| Used 1 of each colour without breaking any rules | +1 bonus |
Bonus tokens are also awarded: −6 for 0 tokens up to +6 for all 6. These can swing the final result significantly.
After 6 rounds, add up all points. Highest total wins.
Contradicting Rules
If two active rules directly contradict each other, you must choose which one to follow and which to break. Plan accordingly before the timer starts.
