Want a quick way to get the party started? Easy drinking card games are the ultimate go-to for laid-back fun, perfect for small gatherings, game nights, or house parties where you want to keep things light and laughter-filled. The best part? You don’t need to be a rules expert to jump in. This guide walks you through 12 of the easiest drinking card games that bring the good vibes fast.
Why Choose Easy Drinking Card Games?
Not every party calls for complicated board games or lengthy rules explanations. Sometimes, all you need is a standard deck of cards (or a funny party game) and a group ready to laugh and sip. Easy drinking card games:
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Require little to no setup
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Are quick to explain and start
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Keep the mood fun and casual
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Work great with 3 to 8 players
Whether you're pre-gaming, hosting friends, or looking for last-minute party entertainment, these games are perfect for keeping the energy high and the rules low-effort.
Classic Easy Drinking Card Games to Start With
When it comes to easygoing, classic drinking games, you don’t need to overthink it—or overspend. Many of these timeless favorites can be played with nothing more than a standard deck of cards, though you’ll also find ready-to-go versions available on Amazon if you prefer something a little flashier.
These games are perfect for starting the night off right, getting everyone laughing, and keeping the rules simple enough that no one has to put down their drink to look anything up.
Kings (a.k.a. King's Cup)
What you need: A deck of cards and a large cup in the center.
Each card number has a rule (like 2 = "you", 4 = "floor", etc.). Players draw in turn, and the round continues until the last king is pulled — and that player must drink the "King's Cup."
Why it works: Everyone gets involved, and you can customize the rules to suit your group.
Higher or Lower
What you need: Just a deck of cards.
Each player guesses whether the next card will be higher or lower than the previous one. Get it wrong? Take a drink.
Why it works: So simple, anyone can jump in after one explanation.
Pyramid
What you need: A deck of cards laid out in a pyramid shape and a drink per player.
Players are dealt 4 cards and try to match them with cards in the pyramid as they’re flipped over. Matches let them assign drinks to others.
Why it works: There’s suspense, surprise, and social chaos in every round.
Ride the Bus
What you need: A deck of cards and good memory.
This is a 4-round guessing game (red/black, higher/lower, etc.) that gets tougher each round. At the end, the player who fails the most rides the bus — a penalty mini-game with extra drinks.
Why it works: It builds up with dramatic tension and works great as a closing round.
Funny and Fast-Paced Card Drinking Games
Pick Me Up Party Game
A hilarious prompt-and-response drinking game that encourages flirty, cheeky, or over-the-top pickup lines. Each round has one player read a prompt and the others respond with cards — the best line wins.
Why it works: It’s silly, simple, and perfect for breaking the ice.
Buy it on Amazon: Pick Me Up Party Game
Do or Drink (Unfiltered Version)
Not for the faint of heart. Draw a card, do what it says, or drink. Simple as that.
Why it works: Pure chaos, little brainpower needed, and endless laughs.
Buzzed
Players take turns drawing cards with hilarious, often oddly specific drink assignments like “Drink if you’ve ever sent a risky text.”
Why it works: It’s relatable, ridiculous, and super easy to play with no setup at all.
Drunk Stoned or Stupid
Best with a close group. One player reads a card like "Most likely to cry at a movie," and the group votes who it fits. That person drinks.
Why it works: It’s funny, fast, and gets people talking and roasting — all in good fun.
Minimal Setup, Maximum Laughs: More Quick Options
Screw the Dealer
A guessing game where one person is the dealer and others guess the card value. Incorrect guesses lead to drinks, and the dealer changes hands.
Why it works: It’s unpredictable, and the rules can be taught in under a minute.
Bullshit (With Drinking Rules)
Same rules as the original — players try to get rid of their cards while bluffing. Call out “bullshit” if you think they’re lying. If you’re wrong, you drink. If you’re right, they drink.
Why it works: The bluffing adds drama, and everyone stays engaged.
Ring of Fire (Variation of Kings)
Arrange the cards in a circle and assign a drink-related rule to each. It's a twist on King's Cup but with more flexible and themed rules.
Why it works: You can customize the rules for different party vibes — chill, dirty, flirty, or all-out wild.
How to Choose the Best Easy Drinking Card Game for Your Group
Consider Your Crowd
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Close friends: Go for fun games like Drunk Stoned or Stupid or Pick Me Up.
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Mixed groups: Try classics like Kings or Pyramid with more universal appeal.
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Shy players: Buzzed and Higher or Lower are great icebreakers that don’t single anyone out.
Know the Party Vibe
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Chill night in: Go with relaxed, conversational games like Buzzed.
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Pre-game chaos: Do or Drink or Ride the Bus bring maximum energy fast.
Short on Time?
Stick to games that use a single deck of cards — like Kings, Pyramid, or Higher or Lower — which can be explained and started within 2 minutes.
FAQs About Easy Drinking Card Games
Can You Play These Games With a Standard Deck?
Yes! Most of the games on this list require only a standard 52-card deck and drinks.
How Many People Can Join In?
Most games work best with 3 to 8 players. Some, like Buzzed or Pick Me Up, scale easily to larger groups.
Are These Games Suitable for New Drinkers?
Absolutely — just set boundaries, encourage pacing, and focus on the fun rather than pressure.
Do These Games Require Alcohol?
Nope. You can always play with non-alcoholic drinks or modify penalties. The goal is fun, not getting wasted.
Choose Your Favorite and Let the Good Times Flow
Get the Party Started With Easy Drinking Card Games
No complicated rules. No awkward pauses. Just laughs, drinks, and unforgettable memories. Whether you go old-school with Kings or spice things up with Pick Me Up, these easy drinking card games guarantee a great time with little prep and all the fun.
Pro tip: Keep a deck of cards and your favorite party game on hand — you never know when a casual hang will turn into the night of the year.
Ready to play? Grab a deck, pick your game, and raise your glass. Cheers to effortless entertainment!
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