King of Tokyo

King of Tokyo rules — frequently asked questions

Can I heal while in Tokyo?

Not with heart dice — hearts do nothing for the monster in Tokyo. Only card effects that explicitly heal can help you there. That tension is the core decision of the game.

Who do my claws hit?

Location decides. If you're outside Tokyo, all your claw damage hits the monster(s) inside Tokyo. If you're inside, your claws hit every monster outside simultaneously. Claws never hit monsters in the same zone as you.

When can the monster in Tokyo yield?

Immediately after taking at least 1 claw damage from the active player — take the damage first, then choose to flee. The attacker must move in and scores 1 VP for entering.

Do I have to enter Tokyo if it's empty?

Yes — if you roll at least one claw and Tokyo is unoccupied, entering is mandatory (worth 1 VP). Sometimes the throne finds you whether you want it or not.

How do number dice score again?

Three matching number dice score face value in VP: three 1s = 1 VP, three 2s = 2, three 3s = 3. Each additional matching die adds 1 more VP. Fewer than three of a number scores nothing.

Can I keep dice between rerolls and then change my mind?

Yes. After each roll you set aside whatever you like, but kept dice can be thrown back in on a later reroll. Only your final result after up to three rolls counts.

What do the two green dice do?

Nothing by default — they only join your rolls when a power card (like one granting extra dice) says so. Base game: you roll the 6 black dice.

What happens with 5 or 6 players?

Tokyo Bay opens as a second Tokyo slot. Attacks from outside hit both occupants; both score for staying. When the player count drops to 4, whoever is in the Bay leaves and it closes.

Is winning checked before or after dying?

Elimination is immediate: if damage drops you to 0 health, you're out even if an effect would have scored your 20th point in the same breath. Reaching 20 VP while alive ends the game on the spot.

Can I buy power cards at any time?

Only during your own turn, after resolving your dice. Spend energy on any of the 3 face-up cards (refill after each purchase), or pay 2 energy to discard all three and reveal a fresh market.