How Do You Play Apples to Apples? Card Game Rules and Party Tips
Looking for a party game that’s fast, funny, and easy to learn? Apples to Apples is a go-to favorite for family gatherings, friend groups, and anyone who loves clever comparisons. With simple rules and endless replayability, it’s a classic card game that delivers big laughs with minimal setup.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how you play Apples to Apples, walk through the official Apples to Apples card game rules, and share a few bonus tips to keep your next game night lively.
What Is Apples to Apples?
Apples to Apples is a card-based party game where players try to make the funniest, most surprising, or most fitting comparisons. One player serves as the judge each round, while the others play cards in response to a prompt. The judge picks their favorite, and the winning player scores a point.
It’s a blend of clever wordplay and personal humor—making it perfect for groups who know each other well (but fun for strangers, too).
What Comes in the Apples to Apples Box?
Depending on which edition you have, your Apples to Apples game will include:
-
Over 500 Red Apple Cards: These are nouns—people, places, things, or events.
-
Green Apple Cards: These are adjectives that describe something—like “weird,” “brilliant,” or “terrifying.”
-
A rulebook
-
Enough cards for 4–10 players
How To Set Up Apples to Apples
Setting up the game is quick:
-
Shuffle both decks (green and red).
-
Place the green deck in the middle.
-
Give 7 red apple cards to each player.
-
Choose the first judge—this can be the last person who ate an apple, the youngest player, or at random.
Apples to Apples Card Game Rules
The Role of the Judge
Each round, one player acts as the judge. Their job is to draw a green card (the prompt) and read it aloud to the group.
Example: “Spicy,” “Romantic,” or “Disgusting”
The Role of the Players
All other players choose one red card from their hand that they think best (or funniest) matches the green card. Players place their chosen red cards face-down in a pile.
Judging the Best Match
Once all red cards are submitted, the judge shuffles them and reads each card aloud. The judge picks the red card they feel is the best match—based on logic, humor, irony, or total randomness.
The player who submitted the chosen red card wins the round and gets the green card as a point.
Winning the Game
The game ends when someone collects a set number of green cards:
-
4 players: 8 green cards
-
5–6 players: 7 green cards
-
7+ players: 6 green cards
That player is declared the Apples to Apples champion.
Variations and House Rules for Apples to Apples
Judge’s Choice Mode
Instead of judging based on the “best fit,” the judge can choose the most ironic or ridiculous match—totally based on their own sense of humor.
Double-Down Play
Players can submit two red cards to create fun or strange combinations. For example, to describe “romantic,” someone might play “Vampires + Candlelight.”
Rotating Judges with Commentary
Some groups like to rotate judges quickly and require them to justify their decision—turning each round into a mini roast session.
Tips to Win Apples to Apples
Know Your Audience
If the judge is your best friend, you probably know what will make them laugh. Play to their tastes, humor, and references.
Hold Onto Wild Cards
Sometimes it’s better to save a wild or versatile red card for a round where it can really shine. Don’t waste “Beyoncé” on “Sleepy.”
Throw in the Unexpected
Playing a totally opposite or shocking card can score a laugh and win the round. Example: playing “Brussels Sprouts” for the adjective “Sexy.”
Apples to Apples vs. Other Card Games
If you’ve played Cards Against Humanity, you might think Apples to Apples is a cleaner, more family-friendly version. That’s true—but it still allows for tons of personality and unexpected combos.
Why It’s a Great Game Night Pick
-
Simple rules
-
Quick rounds
-
Works with kids or adults
-
No need for inside jokes or pop culture knowledge
If you're planning a game night with mixed ages or preferences, Apples to Apples is a safe bet that still brings energy and laughs.
How to Keep the Game Fresh
Switch Up the Judge Often
Every player brings a different perspective to the judge’s seat, so rotate frequently to keep the game interesting.
Create Custom Cards
Write your own green and red cards based on inside jokes, local references, or shared memories to personalize the experience.
Play With a Timer
For bigger groups, add a 30-second timer to speed up rounds and avoid analysis paralysis.
Turn Any Group Into a Laughing Crowd With Apples to Apples
Whether you’re hosting family, planning a chill party with friends, or just want a card game that’s easy to teach and endlessly fun, Apples to Apples is a crowd-pleaser.
Now that you know how to play Apples to Apples and have the official card game rules, you're all set to throw down the adjectives and pick the most hilariously mismatched red cards.
So grab a deck, gather your people, and let the comparisons begin—one absurd round at a time.
Grab the Apples to Apples Card Game on Amazon!
FAQs About Apples to Apples
-
What age is Apples to Apples appropriate for?
The standard version is great for ages 12 and up, but there's a Junior version for younger kids too. -
How many players can join in?
Apples to Apples works best with 4–10 players, but house rules can stretch it further. -
Can you mix editions or expansions?
Absolutely! Many versions exist (Pop Culture, Party Box, Big Picture)—and mixing adds more variety. -
What happens if there's a tie or the judge can’t decide?
Some groups allow two winners, while others replay the round. Or make the judge pick with eyes closed! -
Is Apples to Apples good for classrooms or team building?
Yes! It’s great for language skills, social bonding, and low-pressure fun. - Are you an Amazon Associate, and what does that mean?
Pick Me Up is a part of the Amazon Associate program. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. When you click on links to various merchants on this blog, this can result in us earning a commission.
