Licensed Dice Sets Buying Guide: Walking Dead, Shadowrun, and CATAN Compared

Quick answer

If you want a licensed dice set that works for multiple games, start with a full 7-die polyhedral set in a material you enjoy rolling. For a specific game, match the set to that game's dice needs: CATAN uses two d6, while most RPGs need the full polyhedral spread. For a display piece or gift, a themed set like the BattleTech Energy Crystals or the Walking Dead set adds table presence. Buy the set that fits how you actually play, not just the logo on the box.

Licensed dice sets are more than fan merchandise. They change how a game feels at the table, and they often push you to buy dice you would not otherwise consider. But with so many brands and themes, it is easy to pay for a logo and end up with dice that do not fit your game.

This guide compares three popular licensed lines—The Walking Dead, Shadowrun, and CATAN—and explains what to check before you buy. You will also see how non-licensed sets from FanRoll can fill gaps, like mini dice for travel or stone dice for a premium feel.

What makes a licensed dice set worth buying

A licensed set earns its price when the theme matches the game you already play and the dice themselves are usable. Check three things: dice count and types, material and finish, and whether the set includes extras like a bag or tray. A set with only d6 works for CATAN but not for D&D. A set with sharp edges and a display box is great for collectors but may not survive heavy rolling.

Also consider how the license affects availability. Convention exclusives and limited runs can sell out fast, so if you see a set you want, buy it when you can. Standard licensed sets are easier to replace, which matters if you lose dice often.

• Count the dice: most RPGs need 7 pieces (d4, d6, d8, d10, d10%, d12, d20).
• Check the material: resin is lightweight, metal is heavy, stone is heavier and can chip.
• Decide if you need a matching bag or tray; buying separately often costs more.

Walking Dead vs Shadowrun: which licensed RPG dice fit your table

The Walking Dead dice set is built for survival horror. It typically includes a full polyhedral set with a gritty, worn look. If you run zombie campaigns, the theme does a lot of work: players see the dice and immediately feel the tension. The trade-off is that the theme is narrow. If you also play high fantasy, the dice may feel out of place.

Shadowrun dice sets lean cyberpunk. They often use bright colors, neon accents, or ammo-shaped designs. The convention exclusive ammo set is a good example: it looks like a bullet and fits the Shadowrun setting perfectly. But if your table plays multiple systems, a themed set may not match every game. In that case, a neutral set like the Black and Red Marble with Gold Numbers 16mm Poly Dice Set works across genres.

• Choose Walking Dead if you run horror or survival games and want the table to feel tense.
• Choose Shadowrun if you play cyberpunk or modern settings and like bold, thematic dice.
• Choose a neutral set if you play many different systems and want one set that fits all.

CATAN dice set: what to look for

CATAN uses two six-sided dice, so a licensed CATAN dice set usually includes two d6 with custom colors or symbols. That is enough for the base game, but it will not cover expansions that add other dice. If you want a set that works for CATAN and other games, look for a standard polyhedral set and use only the d6s for CATAN.

The main reason to buy a CATAN-specific set is table presence. A themed set makes the game feel more official and can be a great gift for a CATAN fan. The trade-off is limited utility: you get two dice instead of seven, and you may pay a premium for the license. If you already own plenty of d6, a licensed CATAN set is a cosmetic upgrade, not a functional one.

• Check the dice count: most CATAN sets include only two d6.
• Consider a full polyhedral set if you also play RPGs; you can use the d6s for CATAN.
• Buy a licensed CATAN set if you want the theme and do not mind the limited dice.

Material and size: what actually matters at the table

Material affects feel, sound, and durability. Resin dice are light and quiet, and they come in endless colors and inclusions. Metal dice are heavy and loud, and they can dent wooden tables without a tray. Stone dice, like the Engraved K2 Stone set, are heavier still and have a unique look, but they can chip if dropped on a hard floor.

Size matters too. Standard 16mm dice are easy to read and roll. Mini 10mm dice are portable and great for travel, but they can be hard to read across a table. If you play in tight spaces or at conventions, a mini set like the Stardust Gray 10mm Mini Poly Dice Set is a practical choice. If you want a premium feel, full-sized stone or metal dice deliver.

• Resin: lightweight, affordable, and available in many designs.
• Metal: heavy, durable, and loud; use a dice tray to protect the table.
• Stone: heavy and unique, but handle with care to avoid chips.

How to spot a good deal on licensed dice

Licensed dice often carry a markup, but you can still find value. Compare the price per die and check whether the set includes a bag or tray. A set with seven dice and a bag is usually a better deal than a set with two dice and no extras. Also look for sales: many retailers discount licensed sets when a new season or edition launches.

If you are buying for a gift, consider a set that works beyond the license. A generic polyhedral set in a color the recipient loves will get more use than a themed set for a game they rarely play. If you know they love the theme, a licensed set is a home run.

• Calculate price per die, not just the total price.
• Check for included extras like bags or trays.
• Buy during sales or when a new edition launches.

Decision rules: which licensed dice set should you buy?

• If you play a specific licensed RPG: Match the set to that game. For The Walking Dead, buy the Walking Dead set. For Shadowrun, buy the Shadowrun set. The theme reinforces the setting and makes the game more immersive. Buy the set that matches the game you play most.
• If you play CATAN and other games: A CATAN-specific set gives you two d6, which is enough for the base game. But if you also play RPGs, a full 7-die polyhedral set gives you more value and works for CATAN too. Choose a full polyhedral set unless you only play CATAN.
• If you want a premium feel or a gift: Consider a stone or metal set. The Engraved K2 Stone set is heavy and unique, and it works for any game. It is a strong gift for a dice enthusiast. Buy stone or metal for a special occasion, not for everyday travel.
• If you need portability: Mini 10mm dice like the Stardust Gray Mini Poly Dice Set fit in a pocket and are great for conventions or travel. They are harder to read, so use them when space is tight. Choose mini dice for travel, full-sized dice for home games.

Product facts

• Limited Edition Convention Exclusive BattleTech Energy Crystals Dice Set: Harness the raw power of a fusion core with the BattleTech Energy Crystals Resin Dice Set — a vibrant tribute to the high-tech chaos of the battlefield. Designed to look like glowing energy crystals freshly pulled from a shattered reactor, these dice capture the pulse and power of BattleTech’s futuristic warfare. Each die is crafted from high-quality resin, infused with radiant color swirls and shimmering effects. If you want a licensed set that stands out on the table and fits sci-fi or cyberpunk games, this set delivers visual impact. The resin construction keeps it lightweight for regular play.
• Cat Dice 16mm Resin Poly Dice Set: Cat dice are infused with resin cats! These are full-sized 16mm polyhedral dice sets that come with 7 dice (d4, d6, d8, d10, d10%(00-90), d12, and d20). A full polyhedral set with a fun theme, this works for any RPG. The 16mm size is standard and easy to read, and the resin cats inside make it a conversation piece.
• Engraved K2 Stone: Full-Sized 16mm Polyhedral Dice Set: K2 stone is mined from K2 mountain, the second highest mountain in the world. The K2 crystal is thought to balance your earthly experience with a higher consciousness, allowing you to go deep into the spirit world while being firmly grounded to the earth. With their hefty feel and captivating looks, this gemstone dice set is the perfect upgrade for any gaming table. Also a great gift for your favorite gaming buddy. If you want a premium, non-licensed set that feels special, stone dice offer a heavy, unique roll. They are a great gift for a dice collector, but they need careful handling.

Fit guidance

Best for

• Players who want a licensed set that matches their favorite game and enhances the table theme.
• Gift buyers looking for a themed set that a fan will recognize and enjoy.
• Collectors who want limited edition or convention exclusive dice.

Not for

• Players who need one set to cover many different games; a neutral polyhedral set is more versatile.
• Gamers on a tight budget who only need functional dice; standard sets cost less.
• Anyone who dislikes themed dice or prefers a minimalist table.

Licensed dice sets are at their best when the theme and the dice both serve your game. Pick the set that matches how you play, check the dice count and material, and do not pay extra for a license you will not use. If you want one set for everything, a full polyhedral set in a material you love will always earn its place in your bag.