Bullshit Card Game (Cheat): How To Play, Rules, and Strategies

Bullshit, also know as “Cheat”, is a lively and engaging card game that thrives on deception and strategy.

Played with a standard 52-card deck, this game is all about tricking your opponents and calling their bluffs. A successful player in Bullshit must be crafty and quick-witted.

Bullshit card game is simple to learn yet provides endless entertainment. Let’s dig into it!

Game Setup

Players and Deck

Bullshit is best played with 3 to 6 players, but more can join in for a livelier game. You’ll need a standard 52-card deck, and if more than six people are playing, consider adding a second deck.

Objective of the Game

The main objective of Bullshit is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards by playing them face-down and possibly lying about what they are. Opponents can challenge whether you’re telling the truth, and there are penalties for both being caught lying and falsely accusing someone of lying.

Dealing the Cards

Shuffle the deck and deal the entire stack of cards as evenly as possible among the players. It’s okay if some players have one more card than others. The players hold their cards so that they can see them but no one else can.

First Turn

The player to the left of the dealer goes first, and the game continues in a clockwise direction.

Bullshit Gameplay and Rules

Playing Cards

1. On their turn, a player chooses cards from their hand and lays them face-down in the centre pile. They then announce the supposed rank of the cards, such as “two Jacks”.
2. The next player must play cards that are either the same rank or one rank above or below the previously called rank. For instance, after “two Jacks,” the following player can lay down 10s, Jacks, or Queens.
3. Players can lay down as many cards as they want at once, as long as they all match the rank they announce.
4. The Ace is versatile; it can follow a King or precede a 2, allowing the game’s card sequence to loop.

‘Bullshitting’

Here’s where the game earns its name: players can lie about the cards they are playing. If you don’t have the cards you need or want to get rid of other cards, you can play them face-down and lie about what they are.

Challenging a Bullshitter

If another player thinks you’re lying, they can challenge you by saying “Bullshit!”. You then reveal the cards you just played.

• If you were lying, you must pick up the entire pile of face-down cards.
• If you were telling the truth, the challenger picks up the pile.

Let’s see this play out in a series of photos…

Winning the Game

The first player to get rid of all their cards is the winner of Bullshit.

The game can be played in multiple rounds for continued fun, but there is no specific points system; the primary goal is to be the first to deplete your hand.

Strategies and Tips for Bullshit Card Game

Let’s delve into some strategies to hone your game:

Maintain a Steady Demeanour and Master Misdirection

• Consistency is key. Whether you’re playing truthfully or weaving a tale, keep your reactions neutral.
• Watch for giveaways in your opponents’ behaviors and ensure you don’t inadvertently signal your own intentions.
• Establish patterns with your truthful plays. Then, break those patterns occasionally with a bluff to keep opponents on their toes. A subtle change in your tone or emphasis can sow doubt in their minds.

Optimise Your Singles with Sets

• Playing sets, like “three 7’s” or “two Queens,” helps deplete your hand faster than just playing single cards.
• When you have a valid set, consider declaring it but lay down unrelated singles. For instance, with cards like 2, 5, 7, and three 10s, after someone plays “two Jacks,” you could call “three 10s.” But instead of the 10s, place your 2, 5, and 7.
• This tactic works well if you possess the full set of four, as opponents can’t dispute your claim.
• With fewer players, you’ll likely get another chance soon to play your actual set without suspicion.

Choose the Right Time to Call “Bullshit”

• Challenge when you’re nearly sure an opponent is bluffing, especially if holding cards that contradict their claim.
• When the center pile grows and your hand nears depletion, or if your next play looks doubtful, it might be time to accuse someone of cheating. Wait for an opportune moment and challenge a suspicious play.
• If you’re down to one card, expect challenges. Turn the tables by correctly identifying a cheat, which lets you play your final card without restriction.

Intentionally Lose to Complete Sets

• Holding a complete set of a card rank, like all Queens, puts you at an advantage. You’ll easily spot when others bluff with that rank.
• Sometimes, it’s strategic to call “Bullshit” even when you believe the player is honest, especially if doing so helps you complete a set.
• Employ this tactic early in the game when the center pile is small, avoiding a large pickup.

By mastering these strategies, you’ll transition from a Bullshit beginner to a savvy player, adeptly manoeuvring through bluffs, challenges, and triumphant plays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I call “Bullshit” on myself?

No, you cannot call “Bullshit” on yourself. The objective is to deceive other players, not self-incriminate.

What happens if two players call “Bullshit” at the same time?

If two players call “Bullshit” simultaneously, the one who spoke first gets the chance to check. If it’s too close to determine, you can have a neutral judge decide or use another agreed-upon method.

Can I play Bullshit with more than one deck?

Yes, you can play Bullshit with more than one deck if you have a large number of players. It will increase the complexity and excitement of the game.

Is Bullshit card game suitable for children?

Bullshit can be suitable for children who understand the basic concept of bluffing. It’s a fun game that can help develop strategic thinking, but parental guidance might be necessary to explain that lying within the context of the game is acceptable but not in real life.

How long does a typical game of Bullshit last?

A game of Bullshit can last anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of players and the pace of the game.

Can I change the rules Of Bullshit or add my variations?

Absolutely! Many players introduce house rules or specific variations to make the game more interesting. Just ensure that all players are aware of and agree on the changes before starting the game.

Can Bullshit be played with fewer than three players?

Bullshit is best played with three or more players, as the dynamic between multiple players adds to the fun and complexity of the game. Playing with only two players might reduce the game’s excitement, as the deception aspect becomes more predictable.

Conclusion

Bullshit is a captivating card game that combines bluffing, strategy, and social interaction into a fun and often hilarious experience. While the rules are simple to understand, mastering the game’s intricacies can offer endless enjoyment.

Feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, or any creative variations you’ve tried in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you!