Gather around, card game enthusiasts, for a dive into the intriguing world of the President card game. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to play this social and hierarchy-based card game like a pro. Whether you’re aiming to become the President or just looking to avoid ending up as the Scum, this guide has got you covered.
What is the President Card Game?
President is a popular card game, known by many names across the globe such as Scum, Asshole, or Kings. It is adaptable for 4 to 7 players who strive to get rid of their cards as quickly as possible. The dynamics of the game promote a playful struggle for power, with each round catapulting players into various ranks, from the prestigious President to the humbling position of the Scum.
Basic Rules of the President Card Game
The core objective of President is simple: be the first to play all of your cards. Achieving this feat promotes you to the rank of President in the next round, granting you certain advantages. Let’s break down the basics:
- Players: 4-7
- Deck: Standard 52-card deck
- Gameplay Objective: Be the first to get rid of all your cards.
- Hierarchy: Players are ranked based on their order of finishing; President, Vice-President, Neutral(s), Vice-Scum, and Scum.
Setting Up the Game
To kick things off, deal the entire deck evenly among all the players. Any leftover cards are put aside or given to certain players based on your rule variations.
How to Play
Starting with the President (or a randomly chosen player in the first round), players take turns playing cards. You can play a single card or a set of cards with matching values. The next player must then play the same number of cards with a higher value or pass. Play continues around the circle until everyone passes, at which point the last player to play a card leads the next sequence.
Winning the Game
The first player to discard all of their cards is crowned the President for the next round. The game continues until all players are ranked by when they finish. Special privileges are usually given to the President and Vice-President, like the ability to make rules or hand off their worst cards to the Scum and Vice-Scum.
Adapting and Customizing
One of the joys of President is how adaptable it is. Many people introduce wildcards, special rules for specific cards, or penalties and rewards based on the finishing order. These variants keep the game fresh and interesting.
Final Thoughts
President isn’t just a game of luck; it’s a game of strategy, knowing when to play your best cards, and a bit of social maneuvering. It’s perfect for social gatherings, family game nights, or as a lively educational tool to teach strategic thinking. So shuffle up, deal out, and may the best strategist climb to the top of the political ladder!
