Cribbage is a classic card game known for its blend of luck, skill, and strategy—plus its unique scoring board with pegs. Whether you’re brand new or just brushing up on the rules, this complete guide to cribbage game rules will walk you through everything you need to know, from dealing to counting your final hand.
What Is Cribbage?
Cribbage is a card game for two to four players, most commonly played by two. It uses a standard 52-card deck and a special cribbage board for scoring with pegs. The objective: be the first to score 121 points through card combinations made during play and in your hand.
What You Need to Play Cribbage
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Standard 52-card deck
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Cribbage board and pegs (or use pen and paper)
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2 players (rules vary slightly for 3-4 players)
Basic Overview of Cribbage Game Rules
The game has three main phases:
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The Deal and Crib
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The Play (Pegging Phase)
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The Show (Scoring Hands)
Each round scores points from card play and combinations. Pegging marks your progress toward 121 points on the cribbage board.
Setting Up the Game
Deal and Crib
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Each player is dealt 6 cards.
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Players each choose 2 cards to discard into the crib (a separate hand that the dealer will score later).
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The crib alternates between players each round.
The Starter Card
After discarding to the crib:
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The non-dealer cuts the deck, and the dealer reveals the starter card.
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If the starter is a Jack, the dealer scores “2 for his heels.”
Card Play (Pegging Phase)
Players alternate playing one card at a time, adding up the total as they go—but never going over 31.
Pegging Points During Play
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15: Score 2 points for making exactly 15.
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31: Score 2 points for hitting 31.
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Pairs: 2 for a pair, 6 for three of a kind, 12 for four.
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Runs: Score based on the number of cards in sequence (minimum 3).
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Go: If one player can’t play without going over 31, the other says "Go" and continues until they can't play either. The last to play pegs 1 (or 2 if they land on 31).
Scoring Hands (The Show)
After pegging ends, players score their hands, followed by the dealer scoring the crib.
Hand Scoring Breakdown
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Combinations adding to 15: 2 points each
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Pairs: 2 points
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Runs: 3+ points
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Flush (same suit): 4 cards = 4 points, 5 cards = 5 points
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His Nobs: 1 point for a Jack of the same suit as the starter
Order of Scoring
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Non-dealer’s hand
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Dealer’s hand
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Dealer’s crib
Cribbage Board and Pegging
Players use pegs to mark points scored throughout the game:
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Always use two pegs to show your previous and current score.
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Peg forward as you earn points.
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First player to reach or exceed 121 points wins (must land exactly; no over-pegging).
Cribbage Game Rules for 3 or 4 Players
Three-Player Cribbage
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Each player gets 5 cards.
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One card is discarded to the crib by each player; the dealer adds one from their own hand.
Four-Player Cribbage
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Play as two teams.
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Each player receives 5 cards.
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Partners sit opposite and share one crib.
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Discard rules vary slightly but follow the same scoring system.
Winning the Game
The game ends immediately when a player reaches or passes 121 points, even in the middle of a round.
Skunking
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If the losing player has 90 points or fewer, it’s a “skunk”—a more decisive win.
Tips and Strategies for Beginners
Keep Low Cards
Cards that add to 15 (like 5, 10, 2, 3) often score during pegging and in your hand.
Avoid Feeding the Crib
When discarding to your opponent’s crib, avoid pairs, fives, or cards that could make 15.
Watch the Starter Card
Use the starter card to identify potential combos—especially runs or flushes.
Pace Your Pegging
Don’t rush into playing high cards. Set up opportunities to score on 15s and pairs.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cribbage Game
What is the purpose of the crib in cribbage?
The crib is an extra hand that belongs to the dealer. It’s scored after both players show their regular hands.
Do you always need a cribbage board to play?
No, but the board makes scoring easier. You can track scores on paper in a pinch.
Why is the number 15 so important?
Many cribbage points come from combinations totaling 15. It’s central to both pegging and hand scoring.
Can you over-score and still win?
No. You must land exactly on 121. If you overshoot, you stay at your previous score.
What happens if both players reach 121 in the same round?
The player who pegs 121 first wins—even if the other has more points in hand or crib.
Start Pegging—Bring Cribbage Back to Game Night
Now that you understand the cribbage game rules, you’re ready to shuffle up and start playing. Cribbage is the perfect mix of tactical play and friendly competition, with a pace that encourages conversation along the way. Whether you're playing one-on-one or in teams, it’s easy to see why cribbage remains a beloved classic.
Ready to peg your way to victory? Grab a deck, set up the board, and get scoring!
