Bulls and Cows claims to be the “original code-breaking game” and after some research, it does seem to be around a century old. The earliest reference I can find to Mastermind is 1971. Both games are great code-breaking games.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on it and make a purchase I’ll receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please check our Privacy Policy and Disclaimers and Disclosures.
The copy of Bulls and Cows that I found at a thrift store consists of a wooden tray to hold the code, Bull tokens, Cow tokens, and cards. The cards are square and I immediately went to work shuffling them, which was difficult due to their size and shape. However, this isn’t necessary; it’s much easier to play the game if you keep them separated. All cards have a 1, 2, 3, or 4 on the back.
How to Play Bulls & Cows
Begin by choosing whether you want a 3-digit or a 4-digit code. Our game recommends removing the “4” cards for a 3-digit code, but after playing, this doesn’t seem necessary.
The Code Maker decides on a code. Numbers can be repeated. Then, the Code Breaker attempts their first guess. Mastermind has 6 possible colors for 4 spots, so I prefer to start with 4 different colors to see if I can eliminate some. However, that strategy wasn’t good and it seems to work better to begin with all of one number to either eliminate it or at least see how many there are.
If a card is correct and in the correct spot, a Bull token is used. If the correct card is in the wrong location, a Cow token is used. Place them next to each guess so the Code Breaker can refer back to them for later guesses.
The best news about Bulls and Cows is that you can DIY it with just paper and pencil. Or to really exercise your working memory, try to do it mentally! (I think this is beyond my Mom Brain). All told, it’s pretty similar to Mastermind and I don’t think it’s worth having both copies. However, if you don’t have a copy of Mastermind and you can find (or DIY) Bulls and Cows cheap, it’s a fine substitute.