5ive Straight

About this board game

5ive Straight is a peg-and-card game for 2–9 players that takes about 20 minutes to play. First released in 1958 and later re-issued, it challenges players to create a line of five pegs on a plastic board with 100 numbered holes.

The board’s numbers follow an often-reversing spiral, with 1 at the center. A shuffled deck contains cards numbered from 1 to 100, and each player begins with four cards. On a turn, you may play a card and place a peg, or draw a card, while keeping your hand within the four-card limit.

The central twist makes every card a tactical decision. Playing a card lets you place a peg on the matching number or on any empty number above it. A high card such as 60 can reach spaces from 60 through 100, while a low card such as 6 can potentially reach almost anywhere, including important central spaces.

• Objective: Be the first to get five pegs in a row.
• Components: A 100-hole plastic peg board, pegs, and a deck numbered 1–100.
• Core choice: Play a card for placement or draw a card to improve your options.
• Player count: Suitable for 2–9 players, with the description highlighting 2–3 players and partnership play.

Partnerships add another layer of frustration and fun, as teammates may fail to block or use low cards to occupy high-numbered spaces. Simple to learn and welcoming to non-gamers, 5ive Straight offers a lively contest of placement, blocking, and opportunity.

It may appeal to players who enjoy Take 5, 5 in a Row, Go-Moku, Renju, or Pente.