how to play card game asshole

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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18-01-2025

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Asshole, also known as Presidents, is a fast-paced, fun card game perfect for groups of 4-8 players. The goal is simple: be the first to get rid of all your cards to become the "President," while avoiding becoming the lowly "Asshole." This guide will walk you through the rules and strategies to dominate the game.

What You'll Need:

• A standard 52-card deck
• 4-8 players

How to Play Asshole:

1. Dealing the Cards: Shuffle the deck thoroughly and deal all the cards evenly among the players. No cards are left out.

2. The First Round: Each player looks at their hand but keeps it hidden from others. The player with the lowest card (a 2 is lowest, then a 3, and so on, with Aces being high) in their hand starts the first round. They must play this lowest card. If multiple players have the same lowest card, the player to the starter's left starts.

3. Playing Cards: After the first card is played, subsequent players must follow these rules:

• Play a higher card: Players must play a card of the same suit that is higher in rank than the previously played card.
• Playing a higher card of a different suit: If a player doesn’t have a card of the same suit that’s higher than the one played, they can play a higher card from a different suit.
• Passing: If a player cannot follow suit or play a higher card, they must pass.

4. Rounds Continue: The round ends when all players but one have passed. The player who played the highest card starts the next round, choosing any card from their hand to begin.

5. Getting Rid of Cards: The goal is to get rid of all your cards. Continue playing rounds until a player successfully plays all their cards.

6. Determining Rank: Once a player empties their hand, the game ends. Players are then ranked according to how many cards they have left:

• President: The player who finishes first.
• Vice President: The player who finishes second.
• Asshole: The player who finishes last.
• Scum: (Optional, depending on player count) The second to last player.

7. Subsequent Rounds (Optional): Some variations involve multiple rounds where the President and Asshole switch places.

Gameplay Strategies and Tips:

• Card Management: Pay close attention to your cards, plan your moves carefully. Try to identify cards you can save to help you pass rounds later.
• Observe Opponents: Watch which cards your opponents are playing. It will give you insight into which cards they have and which cards you might need to keep.
• Strategic Passing: Don't be afraid to pass if you don’t have a powerful card. Sometimes passing is strategically better than playing a weak card, which will likely be beaten immediately.
• Understanding Power Cards: The Aces, Kings, Queens, and Jacks tend to win most rounds, but remember, the highest card in a round is always the highest card played in that suit.

Variations of Asshole:

• Power Cards: Some variations assign special powers to certain cards, such as a 2 being able to be played on anything, regardless of suit or ranking, or a 10 allowing you to switch the suit in play. A common adjustment is the Ace having the highest power in the deck.
• Number of Rounds: Some groups play multiple rounds, switching president and asshole for each round.
• Penalties: Some add penalties for certain actions, like passing when you could have played a card.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I play a lower card if I don't have a higher one?

A: No, you must play a higher card of the same suit, or a higher card of a different suit if you don't have a higher card of the same suit. If you can't do either, you must pass.

Q: What happens if two players play the same highest card?

A: In this case, the player to the left typically wins. However, house rules can vary.

Q: Is there a way to change the suit being played?

A: This depends on the house rules. There aren't any standard mechanics to change the suit, but some variants allow for certain cards, like a 10, to force a suit change.

Asshole is a game best learned by playing. Get together with your friends, deal out the cards, and enjoy the cutthroat competition! Remember to keep the atmosphere light and fun, even when you end up as the Asshole.