Phase 10 Rules

How to Play Phase 10 Card Game

The Phase 10 card game is a competitive rummy-like game where players race to complete 10 different card combinations (called phases) in order. The first player to finish all 10 phases wins the game.

While there are many small variations, this guide explains the official Phase 10 rules used in the classic version of the game.

Preparations

Players: 2–6
Deck: 108-card Phase 10 deck

• Number cards: 1–12 in four colors (2 of each)
• 8 Skip cards
• 4 Wild cards

Objective:
Be the first player to complete all 10 phases in order.

Setup

• Shuffle the deck thoroughly.
• Deal 10 cards face down to each player.
• Place the remaining cards in the center as the draw pile.
• Flip the top card face up to start the discard pile.
• Choose a dealer and play clockwise.

Gameplay — Phase 10 Rules

Players take turns in clockwise order. On each turn:

1. Draw a card:

   • Either the top card from the draw pile or the top card from the discard pile.

2. Play a phase (if possible):

   • Each round, players try to complete the current phase they are on (see list of phases below).
   • Once a player lays down a complete phase, they can also lay off (add cards) to anyone’s phase sets on later turns.

3. Discard a card:

   • End your turn by discarding one card to the discard pile.

4. End of round:

   • When a player plays their phase and discards their last card, the round ends.
   • Players who completed their phase move to the next phase in the next round.
   • Players who did not complete their phase must retry it.

The 10 Phases

Each player must complete these in order:

1. 2 sets of 3 (e.g., 3×5s + 3×9s)
2. 1 set of 3 + 1 run of 4
3. 1 set of 4 + 1 run of 4
4. 1 run of 7
5. 1 run of 8
6. 1 run of 9
7. 2 sets of 4
8. 7 cards of one color
9. 1 set of 5 + 1 set of 2
10. 1 set of 5 + 1 set of 3

Wild cards can stand in for any card in a set or run.
Skip cards force a chosen opponent to lose their next turn.

Scoring

• When a round ends, players add up the values of cards left in their hands.
• Card values:
  • Number cards = face value
  • Skip = 15 points
  • Wild = 25 points
• Lowest total score wins if multiple players complete Phase 10 in the same round.

Strategies and Tips – How to Play Phase 10

Improve your play in the Phase 10 card game with these quick tips:

• Watch your discards: Don’t feed opponents the cards they need for their current phase.
• Use wilds wisely: Save wilds for harder phases like runs of 9 or color sets.
• Discard high-value cards early: If you think someone is close to going out, get rid of 25- and 15-point cards.
• Track what others are collecting: Their draws and discards give clues about their phase.

Overview of the Phase 10 Card Game Rules

• 2–6 players, 108-card deck
• Complete 10 specific phases in order
• Draw → play phase/lay off → discard
• Round ends when a player goes out
• Players advance only if they complete their phase
• First to complete all 10 phases wins

Final Thoughts on How to Play Phase 10

The Phase 10 card game mixes luck, planning, and strategy in a race to finish 10 unique phases. With straightforward Phase 10 rules, colorful cards, and exciting twists from wild and skip cards, it’s perfect for family game nights or casual play.

A full game takes about 60–90 minutes, and every round is a new chance to catch up — making Phase 10 a fun and suspenseful alternative to traditional rummy.