Buckaroo
Buckaroo has a long history and it remains not just a cool retro toy but a popular Christmas/party-event game to pull out. Laugh and enjoyment is guaranteed with Buckaroo. And probably a few screams when you pile on too much or too heavily and the mule (named 'Roo', by the way) kick-out his legs and you've lost the game!
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Read the rules for Buckaroo
What is Buckaroo?
Buckaroo involves you gently loading Roo the mule with 12 items – if you can – without setting off him booting his legs out and flinging stuff everywhere. Buckaroo isn't just a random game, as you might assume, where you can just place any item onto Roo in any order. NO! You'll need to place one particular item onto the mule first to enable other items to be loaded. You'll work it out when you play Buckaroo, if your memory has deserted you from playing it as a child!
Fun Fact: The mule is officially named "Roo", but shouting "Buckaroo!" at the top of your lungs is part of the fun!
Buckaroo History
- Released originally in 1970 by Ideal (and later by Milton Bradley, Hasbro, and others).
- Invented by Don Alfieri, the game quickly became a family favourite in the UK and worldwide.
- The spring-loaded mule, Roo, and his wild kick have been thrilling kids and adults for generations.
- Buckaroo is a staple of Christmas mornings, family gatherings, and party nights.
- Special editions and colour variations have appeared over the decades – but the gameplay stays the same!
How to Play Buckaroo – Rules
- Set up Roo the mule on a stable surface with his four legs locked and tail down.
- All 12 items (bedroll, saddle, canteen, etc.) are placed nearby.
- Each turn, a player carefully places one item onto Roo, following the required item order (the saddle almost always goes first!).
- If Roo "bucks" (kicks), that player is out and the round is reset.
- The winner is the last player left, or the one to place the final item without setting Roo off.
- Buckaroo is recommended for 2-4 players, but solo play is totally legit!
Strategy & Tips
- Always start with the saddle – it enables loading of everything else!
- Balance heavier or awkward items low and close to Roo’s body.
- Place items gently – even a tiny jolt can set Roo off!
- Watch the angle: sometimes objects can tip and trigger the kick.
- Play mind games! If you act nervous, other players might get shaky hands.
- Try solo play for practice or as a party challenge.
Why We Love Buckaroo
Buckaroo delivers tension, laughter, and jump scares in equal measure. The simplicity makes it perfect for all ages, but the suspense keeps everyone on the edge of their seat! It’s just as good for a party crowd as for a quiet night in.
Retro Tip: Some older versions have a more sensitive Roo – if you’ve got a vintage game, handle with care!
Can You Play Buckaroo Alone?
Buckaroo is supposed to be a 2–4 player game, but the very nature of Buckaroo means, we reckon, that solo-play is perfectly reasonable and a good way to spend the evening! Try to beat your personal best for items loaded, or compete for the quietest hands.