Crazy Eights Rules

How to play Crazy Eights card game

Very similar to UNO, Crazy Eights is very played with a standard 52-card deck and is suitable for 2–6 players. The goal is simple: be the first player to get rid of all your cards by matching rank or suit – or by using special cards like eights.

Setup and preparations

• Number of players: 2–6
• Cards: Standard 52-card deck (no jokers)
• Deal:
  • 2 players: 7 cards each
  • 3–6 players: 5 cards each
• Place the remaining cards face down as the draw pile
• Turn the top card face up to start the discard pile

If the first card is an eight, shuffle it back into the deck and draw a new starting card.

Gameplay – step by step

On your turn, you must play one card that matches either:

• The rank (number or face), or
• The suit of the top discard card

If you cannot play a card, you must draw one card from the draw pile. If the drawn card is playable, you may play it immediately. Otherwise, your turn ends.

Play continues clockwise until one player has no cards left.

Special rules – the eight card

The eight is a wild card and can be played on any card.

When you play an eight:

• You must declare a new suit
• The next player must follow that suit, regardless of the previous card

Eights are the most powerful cards in the game and should be used strategically.

How to win Crazy Eights

The round ends when one player plays their last card.

That player wins the round immediately.

In point-based versions, the remaining players score penalty points for the cards left in their hands, and the game continues over multiple rounds until a target score is reached.

Strategy and tips for Crazy Eights

While Crazy Eights is easy to learn, smart play can significantly improve your chances of winning.

Hold onto eights

• Don’t play eights too early unless necessary
• Saving an eight gives you control over the suit later in the round

Control the suit

• Try to force opponents into suits they are likely missing
• Switch suits often if you notice players drawing frequently

Watch your opponents

• Pay attention to which suits players avoid
• Use eights to block players who are close to winning

Reduce hand size early

• The fewer cards you hold, the less risk you take
• Try to get rid of high-value or awkward cards early

Common Crazy Eights variations

Crazy Eights has many house rules and regional variations that add extra challenge.

Progressive Crazy Eights

• Each time an eight is played, the next player must draw cards
• Often combined with stacking rules

Multiple decks

• Used for large groups
• Increases chaos and unpredictability

Draw-until-play rule

• Players must keep drawing until they can play a card
• Makes rounds faster but more punishing

Overview of Crazy Eights rules

• 2–6 players
• Standard 52-card deck
• Match rank or suit to play
• Eights are wild and change suit
• Draw if you cannot play
• First player to empty their hand win