Crazy Eights is one of the easiest and most entertaining card games you can play with a standard deck. Whether you're planning a casual game night or teaching kids their first card game, Crazy Eights is a classic choice that delivers fast-paced fun. In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to play Crazy Eights, from setup to winning strategies.
What Is Crazy Eights?
Crazy Eights is a shedding-type card game where the goal is to be the first to get rid of all your cards. It’s perfect for 2 to 5 players and can be played with just one standard 52-card deck. Its simplicity makes it ideal for families, parties, and casual hangouts.
What You Need to Play Crazy Eights
Cards
-
1 standard 52-card deck
-
If playing with 5+ players, use two decks
Players
-
2 to 5 players (add more decks if needed)
Crazy Eights Setup
-
Shuffle the Deck
Give the cards a good shuffle before dealing.
-
Deal Cards
-
2 players: deal 7 cards each
-
3 or more players: deal 5 cards each
-
2 players: deal 7 cards each
-
Start the Discard Pile
Place the remaining deck face-down in the center. Flip over the top card to start the discard pile.
-
Choose a Starting Player
The person to the dealer’s left usually goes first.
Objective of the Game
The main goal is to be the first player to discard all your cards. Each turn, players must match the top card on the discard pile by suit or number—or play an 8, which acts as a wild card.
Basic Rules of Crazy Eights
On Your Turn
-
You may play one card that matches the suit or rank of the top discard.
-
If you cannot play a matching card, draw from the deck until you can (or until the draw pile runs out).
Eights Are Wild
-
Playing an 8 lets you choose the next suit.
-
You can play an 8 at any time during your turn.
If You Can’t Play
-
Keep drawing one card at a time until you get a playable card.
-
If the deck runs out and you can’t play, you pass your turn.
How to Win at Crazy Eights
Ending the Round
The round ends when one player discards all their cards.
Scoring (Optional)
Players can add up the points of remaining cards in their opponents’ hands:
-
8s = 50 points
-
Face cards = 10 points
-
Number cards = face value
You can play a single-round game or keep score across several rounds until someone reaches a target score (like 100 or 200 points).
Popular Crazy Eights Variations
1. Uno-Inspired House Rules
-
Add skip, reverse, or draw-two effects to specific cards.
-
For example, 2 = skip, Queen = reverse.
2. Stackable Wild Cards
-
Let players stack 8s in a row and change the suit multiple times.
3. Timed Rounds
-
Set a time limit for each turn to keep the game moving quickly.
Strategy Tips for Crazy Eights
Hold Your Eights
Save your 8s until you’re in a tight spot—or to change the suit at the perfect time.
Watch Your Opponents
Keep track of what suits they’re playing or avoiding.
Balance Drawing and Discarding
Sometimes it’s better to draw than to play your high-value cards too early.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crazy Eights
Is Crazy Eights the same as Uno?
Uno is a modern game inspired by Crazy Eights, but it uses a custom deck and additional action cards.
Can you stack cards in Crazy Eights?
Official rules don’t allow stacking (like +2s), but many house rules do. Agree on rules before you play.
What happens if the draw pile runs out?
Shuffle the discard pile (except the top card) to form a new draw pile.
How many cards do you draw if you can’t play?
Keep drawing one card at a time until you can play or the deck runs out.
Can you end the game with an 8?
Yes! As long as you follow the wild card rule and declare the suit, you can win the game by playing an 8.
Make Your Next Game Night Wild With Crazy Eights
Crazy Eights is the perfect way to kick off a casual card night. It’s quick to learn, fun for all ages, and adaptable with house rules to keep things fresh. Whether you're teaching kids, entertaining guests, or rediscovering card games as an adult, Crazy Eights is always a hit.
Want to add even more laughs to your night? Start with an icebreaker like the Pick Me Up Party Game on Amazon before dealing the cards.
