How to Play First to Worst Card Game: Complete Rules and Guide
If you're into games that spark wild opinions, fierce debates, and non-stop laughter, the First to Worst card game is a must-play. Designed to get everyone talking (and probably arguing), this clever ranking party game is about choosing the best and worst in everyday categories—from movies to meals to mythical creatures.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to play First to Worst, including setup, rules, variations, and strategy tips to win over the group with your rankings.
What Is the First to Worst Card Game?
First to Worst is a party game centered around ranking items within a category from best to worst—aka "first to worst." Players take turns judging while others submit answers and try to win by guessing what the judge will rank as the top (and bottom) choice.
It’s simple to learn, fast to play, and ideal for groups that love subjective fun and bold opinions.
What Comes in the First to Worst Game Box?
Each game typically includes:
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200+ Prompt Cards (with ranking topics)
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Answer Cards or a method to submit player responses (some versions use dry-erase boards or blank cards)
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Instructions Sheet
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Optional: Score tracker or tokens, depending on the edition
Note: Some editions may differ slightly, especially in how answers are submitted or scored.
First to Worst Card Game Objective
The goal is to match your answer to the judge’s ranking preference. You’ll earn points when the judge picks your answer as the first (best) or worst in the list. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
But half the fun is hearing people defend why their answer should be considered the best... or worst.
Game Setup: Get Ready to Rank
How to Set Up First to Worst
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Gather 3 to 8 players (best with 4+).
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Shuffle the prompt cards and place them in a draw pile.
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Decide how players will submit answers—verbally, in writing, or with answer cards.
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Choose the first Judge (you can rotate clockwise each round).
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Give everyone a way to track points—pencil and paper will do if not included.
How To Play First to Worst Card Game: Step-by-Step
1. Draw a Prompt Card
The Judge draws a card and reads the prompt aloud. Example:
“Rank these breakfast foods from first to worst: pancakes, eggs, cereal, bacon.”
Prompts often list 3–5 items or open categories like:
“First to Worst: TV shows you binge when you're sick.”
2. Submit Your Answers
Each non-judge player secretly submits their ranking (or individual answer, depending on the version). Some versions ask for the first (best) only, while others ask for both first and worst.
3. Judge Ranks the Answers
The Judge silently ranks the responses from best to worst—according to their personal opinion. Then they reveal their rankings aloud.
This is where the fun begins. Heated debates often follow:
“WHAT?! How is cereal better than bacon?!”
4. Scoring Points
Points are awarded as follows (depending on version):
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1 point to the player who correctly guessed the first (best) answer.
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1 point to the player who guessed the worst—if applicable.
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Sometimes, bonus points are awarded if someone guesses the exact full order (rare but epic).
5. Rotate the Judge
The Judge role rotates clockwise each round. Play continues for a set number of rounds (e.g., everyone judges twice), or until someone hits a point target (e.g., 10 points).
Popular Variations of the Game
Open-Ended Version
Instead of choosing from listed items, players respond to prompts like:
“First to Worst: Fast food chains” — and then players write in their own choices.
Speed Round
Each player has 10 seconds to rank or respond—great for keeping the energy high.
Group Debate Mode
Let the group vote on the rankings instead of having a solo Judge. Perfect for bigger parties or classrooms.
Tips for Winning First to Worst
Read the Judge
This game is all about knowing the judge’s personality. Do they love hot takes? Are they sentimental? Lean into what you know they’ll favor.
Be Strategic With Humor
Sometimes, a funny or outrageous answer will get picked just because it breaks the ice. Lean into humor when it fits the vibe.
Don’t Overthink It
The best answers often come from gut reactions. Go with what you truly believe—or what you know the Judge thinks is best.
Who Will Love First to Worst?
This game is perfect for:
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Families with teens or adult kids
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Party groups who love games like Hot Takes, What Do You Meme?, or Pick Me Up
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Office teams or classrooms looking for fun conversation starters
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Game night enthusiasts looking for a break from strategy games
If your group loves debating pineapple on pizza, you’ll be obsessed with First to Worst.
Why First to Worst Is a Must-Have Party Game
In a sea of party games, First to Worst stands out by combining humor, hot takes, and personal preferences into every round. There are no right answers—just good instincts, bold opinions, and hilarious justifications.
It’s flexible, replayable, and great for any group looking to bond through playful debates and big laughs.
Embrace the Chaos and Rank Boldly
Now that you know how to play First to Worst and what makes it tick, you're ready to bring it to your next gathering. Whether you’re the kind of person who ranks coffee as the #1 breakfast item or dares to say summer is the worst season, this game was made for you.
Grab a stack of prompt cards, rally your group, and start ranking—from first to absolute worst.
FAQs
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How many players do you need for First to Worst?
It works best with 3 to 8 players, though you can adapt for larger groups with a group-voting version. -
Is First to Worst family-friendly?
Yes! The prompts are generally clean and appropriate for teens and adults. -
How long does a game of First to Worst last?
A full game can last 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the number of players and rounds. -
Can you create your own prompt cards?
Definitely! Homemade prompts are a fun way to customize the experience. -
Do you need the official version to play?
No—you can DIY a version using index cards and a good imagination, though the official deck is packed with fun prompts.
