Crazy Eights: Learn How to Play & Tips to Win Crazy Eights Card Game

What is Crazy Eights?

Crazy Eights is a popular card game that dates back to the 1940s. It is a classic card game enjoyed by children and adults around the world. The game is designed for 2-7 players, and it gets its name from the rule that the eight cards in the game are 'wild' and can be played at any time. Crazy Eights is played with a standard 52-card deck with the objective to be the first player to discard all of their cards. The game gets its name from the unique ability of the eight cards in the deck, which can be used to alter the current suit being played. 

How to Play Crazy Eights?

At the start of the game, one player acts as the dealer and shuffles the deck. The dealer then distributes five cards to each player if there are more than two players. If there are only two players, they receive seven cards each. The remaining cards are placed in the center of the table, face down as the draw pile. The first card from the draw pile is then flipped over, creating the discard pile.

Players take turns to discard a card that matches the suit, rank, or number of the top card of the discard pile. For instance, if the top card is a 6 of clubs, the player can either play any club card or any 6. If a player cannot play a matching card, they must draw cards from the draw pile until they can play.

The eight cards are 'wild,' meaning they can be played regardless of what card is on top of the discard pile. After playing an eight, the player must declare a new suit, and the next player must play a card from the declared suit.

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Rules of Crazy Eights

The main rule of Crazy Eights is matching the top card of the discard pile by number, suit, or rank or using an eight to change the suit. If a player is unable to play a card, they continue drawing cards from the deck until they can.

The game continues until a player has discarded all their cards and is declared the winner. If the draw pile is exhausted before a player wins, the discard pile (except for the top card) is reshuffled to form a new draw pile. Some variations of the game continue until there's only one player left with cards.

Tips for Playing Crazy Eights

Save Your Eights: Since eights are wild and powerful, it's smart to save them for moments when you can't play any other cards or when you want to change the suit in play strategically.

Play High Cards First: As in many card games, it's strategic to play your highest ranking cards at the beginning of the game. If an opponent discards all their cards before you do, the points left in your hand will count against you.

Pay Attention to the suits played: Keep track of what cards, particularly what suits, have been played. This knowledge can help you predict what cards your opponents may have left and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Change Suits Strategically: If you observe an opponent struggling with a particular suit, keeping that suit in play might be wise. Similarly, use your eights to switch the suit to one that you know your opponent doesn't have.

Crazy Eights combines elements of luck and strategy, providing a fun and engaging game for players of all ages. Despite its competitive nature, the main goal should always be enjoyment. 

FAQ About Crazy Eights

How do you play a crazy eight card game?

In Crazy Eight, players take turns playing cards that match the rank or suit of the top card on the discard pile. Special cards like "8s" and "wild cards" add unique twists to the gameplay.

What is 8 in Crazy 8?

In Crazy Eight, the "8" card is a special card that allows the player to change the suit to any desired suit. It can be played at any time and gives the player strategic options.

How many cards do you start with in Crazy 8?

In Crazy Eight, players typically start with a hand of 7 cards. The remaining cards are placed facedown to create a draw pile.

What does the Crazy 8 card mean?

The Crazy Eight card is a special card in the game that allows the player to change the current suit to any desired suit. It adds excitement and strategy to the gameplay.

How do you play Crazy Eight with friends?

To play Crazy Eight with friends, distribute 7 cards to each player, place the remaining cards facedown as the draw pile, and flip the top card to start the discard pile. Take turns playing cards that match the rank or suit of the top card. Use special cards like "8s" to change the suit and add twists to the game.

How do you play Crazy Eight for kids?

When playing Crazy Eight with kids, you can simplify the rules by removing certain cards or modifying their effects. For example, you can remove the "skip" or "reverse" cards. You can also allow players to play any card that matches the suit or rank of the top card. This makes the game more accessible and enjoyable for young children.