It’s time to break the usual pattern of family card games by learning how to play Crazy Eights. This game packs enough fun moments, especially with the use of a wild card that lets its lucky holder flip the game’s direction, keeping everyone on their toes.
This casino guide will help you get started playing Crazy Eights so that you can become a feared card shark in no time!
Or, if you like, you can check out our casino table games section for online fun!
How To Play Crazy Eights: Getting Started
Crazy Eights, first identified in the 1930s, has several names depending on the region. Some call it Switch, while others call it Rockaway. Regardless, it is a card-shedding game where strategic decision-making, bluffing, and maintaining a poker face can determine if you win or lose.
Two to seven or even 10 players can enjoy the Crazy 8 card game using a standard 52-card deck. The objective is to be the first to discard your share of cards. To do this, each participant places a card that has the same suit or rank (face value) as the starting face-up card. However, in War, only rank matters and not the suit. Learn how to play the War card game using our guide.
Card Distribution
Similar to how the method in the trash card game guide, cards are dealt face down in Crazy 8s. Each player receives:
- 7 cards (2-3 players)
- 5 cards (4-6 players)
- 4 cards (7 or more players)
The rest of the cards become the draw pile, placed face down at the center. Flip one card face up beside it to start the discard pile, where players place matching cards. If the starting card appears as an 8 (wild card), shuffle it back into the deck and draw a new card.
Next, a dealer can be selected at random, and the gameplay proceeds following the Crazy Eights card game instructions below. It is one of the casino card games you’ll love.
Crazy Eights Gameplay Steps
The simplicity of the Crazy Eights card game rules makes it pretty easy for both kids and adults to play. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to play Crazy Eights.
Placing the Cards
Players take turns dropping a card that matches the rank (e.g., a 6) or suit (e.g., a heart) of the top card on the discard pile. Gameplay starts with the player to the dealer’s left. Should the draw pile deplete, shuffle the discard pile (except the top card) as a new draw pile to keep the game going.
Card Drawing
If you have no matching card or cannot make a valid move, draw a new card from the draw pile, passing the turn to the next player.
Playing Multiple Cards
You can play multiple cards at once, provided they’re all of the same rank. But the first card must match the discarded top card.
The Chaos of Wild cards (8s)
If you have an 8-value card, you have the power to change the suit by declaring the suit you want the next player to play, shifting the game in your favor.
Winning Terms
The first player to play all their cards wins the round. You can also determine the winner by adding up each player’s card values: 8s = 50 points, face cards (J, Q, or K) = 10 points, Aces = 1 point, and the points for number cards = their respective face value. The participant wth the lowest score wins the round.
Another game where points determine a winner is Rummy. Check out the Rummy 500 rules for 2 players.
Optional Rules In Crazy 8s
- Skip Cards: Playing a Queen forces the next player to skip their turn.
- Draw Cards: Playing a 2 (or 4) forces the next player to draw two (or four) cards.
- Reverse Cards: Playing an Ace reverses the direction of play.
Crazy Eights Strategy Guide
You might underestimate the quietest player until they launch a surprise attack with a sneaky 8. It’s all about strategy. Tips for these players:
- Avoid wasting your 8s early. Also, whenever you want to use your 8, choose a suit that favors your hand.
- If scoring determines the winner, you should discard high-value cards early.
- Bluff only when necessary, and try to maintain a poker face.
- Track cards. If you know which cards have already been played, you can call a suit that isn’t all that available, messing up your opponents.
Become the Master!
The best way to master how to play Crazy Eights is to combine the rules with your instinct. The more you play the game, the sharper your card intuition. With time, you’ll understand how to read tells, trick opponents, and use 8s with precision.
FAQs
What are the rules for Crazy Eights card game?
The rules for Crazy Eights include getting rid of your cards by matching the top card’s suit or rank and playing an 8 (wild card) to change suits.
How to play Crazy 8 card game?
To play Crazy 8, take turns matching the discarded top card. Anyone who runs out of cards wins the round.
How many people can play Crazy 8?
From 2 to 7 players can be entertained playing Crazy 8.
Are Crazy 8 and Uno the same games?
No, Uno is a commercial version inspired by Crazy Eights but includes more complex rules and custom cards.