How to play Crazy Eights

The objective

Your goal is simple: match suit or rank and use eights as wild cards. This guide uses the most common beginner-friendly rules. Families and groups may agree on variations before starting.

What you need

A standard 52-card deck.

How to set up

1. Deal five cards each, or seven for two players.
2. Turn one card face up beside the draw pile.

How to play: step by step

1. Match the discard by rank or suit.
2. Play an eight at any time and name the next suit.
3. Draw when you cannot play.
4. The first player with no cards wins.

Beginner strategies

• Hold an eight until you are blocked.
• Choose a suit you hold several cards in.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Forgetting to name a suit after an eight.
• Playing multiple cards in one turn without a house rule.

Frequently asked questions