Have you ever found yourself in a situation where everyone’s looking for a new card game to play, but you want something that’s easy to pick up, fast-paced, and full of laughs? Look no further than the Asshole card game (also known as Presidents in some places)! This hilarious, yet simple, card game is a party favorite, combining strategy, luck, and a bit of friendly rivalry. If you’ve never played before—or if you want to sharpen your skills—this guide will explain how to play Asshole card game, including all the rules, strategies, and tips you need to become the President (or at least avoid being the Asshole).
What You Need to Play Asshole Card Game?
Before you jump into the game, let’s take a quick look at the basics you’ll need to get started.
1. Number of Players
The Asshole card game is perfect for small or large groups. The ideal number of players is 4 to 8. While you can technically play with fewer players, the game tends to be more fun and dynamic with more people involved.
2. Deck of Cards
You’ll need a standard 52-card deck, with no jokers. The deck is shuffled and evenly dealt to each player, with the goal being to get rid of all your cards first.
3. Seating Arrangement
The game is best played in a circle or around a table. Make sure everyone has space to place their cards face down.
Basic Rules of Asshole Card Game
At its core, Asshole is a straightforward game where players take turns playing cards in a hierarchy. The goal is to be the first player to discard all your cards. Sounds simple, right? But things get interesting with the roles players take on and the strategies they use.
The Objective
The main goal of the Asshole card game is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards. However, the game is also about hierarchy, and there are several roles that players take on based on their performance in previous rounds.
Card Rankings
Cards in Asshole follow a ranking system. Here’s how they are ranked from highest to lowest:
- Ace – Highest
- King
- Queen
- Jack
- 10-2 – Lowest
The game revolves around the rule that you must play a higher card or combination of cards than the one previously played. For example, if someone plays a 5, you need to play a 6 or higher (or a pair of 5s, etc.).
Turn Structure
The player to the left of the dealer starts, and the play moves clockwise. On each turn, a player must play one or more cards of a higher rank than the card(s) previously played. If they can’t do this, they must pass.
Ending the Round
A round ends when all players except one have passed, meaning that the last remaining player can discard their remaining cards. The first player to finish all their cards becomes the President, and the player who finishes last becomes the Asshole.
Understanding the Power Dynamics: President, Asshole, and Everything In Between
One of the most unique features of Asshole is the role hierarchy that forms after each round. These roles are crucial to the game because they come with different privileges (for the President) and responsibilities (for the Asshole).
President
The President is the most powerful player in the game. They get to enjoy the following perks:
- Card Swap: At the beginning of the next round, the President can exchange cards with the Asshole. This allows the President to receive the best cards while giving the worst cards to the Asshole.
- Authority: The President can dictate certain aspects of the game and has influence over the strategy. They can also order players around, adding a fun element of power.
Vice-President
The Vice-President is the second most powerful player. They may not have as much control as the President, but they’re still in a good position to win future rounds. The Vice-President doesn’t get to exchange cards with anyone but is usually safe from the Asshole’s influence.
Asshole Card Game
The Asshole is the lowest-ranked player. As the loser of the round, they suffer the following disadvantages:
- Card Swap: The Asshole has to give their best cards to the President in exchange for the President’s worst cards.
- Limited Power: The Asshole often has to do the bidding of the President and other players. They’re at the mercy of the higher-ranking players and must work hard to avoid being stuck in this role.
Other Roles
Depending on the number of players, additional roles may exist, such as the Secretary or Middle. These roles have varying degrees of power but are generally less important than the President or Asshole.
How to Win (And Avoid Losing) at Asshole?
If you want to succeed at Asshole, it’s important to understand the strategies that will help you avoid being the Asshole and aim for the President’s seat.
Strategy Tips for the President
- Control the Flow: As President, you have the power to dictate the flow of the game. Use it to your advantage! Try to eliminate your competition early by playing high cards or setting up combinations that others can’t easily beat.
- Keep Track of Cards: Pay attention to which cards have already been played. If you know that a high card is still in the deck, you can plan your plays accordingly.
Avoiding the Asshole Role
- Don’t Waste Your High Cards: While it might be tempting to get rid of your high cards early, it’s smarter to hold onto them until you need them most. Use lower cards or combinations to keep your hand manageable.
- Use Pairs and Triples Wisely: Pairs, triples, and four-of-a-kinds are powerful tools in this game. They can help you maintain control over the round and prevent other players from easily winning.
Playing Smart with Pairs and Combinations
- Strategic Plays: Using combinations like pairs, triples, and runs can force other players to pass. If you’re the first to play a combination, your opponents may struggle to beat it, leaving you with an advantage.
- Save Your Best Cards for the Right Moment: Don’t be afraid to hold onto your best cards until the last few rounds. If you can play them strategically, you may avoid the Asshole role and secure your victory.
Variations of Asshole Card Game
Asshole is a flexible game, and depending on your group’s preferences, you can introduce fun variations to keep the gameplay fresh.
Drinking Game Version
In the drinking version of Asshole, the roles can include additional challenges, like taking a drink when you lose a round or performing specific tasks depending on the cards you play. This variation is best for adults and adds an extra layer of fun.
House Rules
House rules are common in Asshole, and many groups create their own rules for card rankings or gameplay. Some popular variations include:
- 2 as Wild: In some versions, the 2 card is wild and can be played as any card. This adds another layer of strategy to the game.
- Reverse: Similar to the game Uno, certain cards (like a 10) may reverse the direction of play, adding an unpredictable twist.
Speed Variations
If you want faster gameplay, you can increase the pace by limiting the number of passes per round or speeding up decision-making. Some players prefer to play a “quick” version of Asshole, where rounds last only a few minutes.
Fun Tips and Etiquette for Playing Asshole
While Asshole is a competitive game, it’s essential to keep the atmosphere lighthearted. Here are some tips to ensure everyone enjoys the game:
Respect the Hierarchy
Although the President has more power, make sure to keep things fun and playful. Avoid getting too serious about the roles, and remember the game is meant to be enjoyable.
When to Call “Asshole”
There will be times when calling someone an Asshole is part of the fun (especially when they lose), but be mindful of the tone and mood of the game. Don’t take things too personally!
Keep It Light
The best games of Asshole are the ones where everyone’s laughing and enjoying themselves. So, whether you’re the President or the Asshole, remember it’s all about having fun with friends.
Conclusion
Now that you understand how to play Asshole card game, it’s time to gather your friends, grab a deck of cards, and dive into a night of strategy, laughter, and friendly competition. Whether you’re looking to claim the title of President or just avoid being the Asshole, this game will keep you on your toes and provide endless fun. So, what are you waiting for? Start the game and let the cards fall where they may!