Planning a party and looking for the perfect drinking game to get the fun started? Most online guides only cover the basic rules of the Asshole drinking game, leaving you with more questions than answers. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the hilarious world of the Asshole card-based drinking game (also known as Presidents or Kings), providing everything you need to know to master the game, dominate your friends, and avoid the dreaded title of “Asshole”. We’ll cover the essential rules, strategic tips for winning, creative variations to spice things up, and answers to your most burning questions. Get ready for a night of unforgettable laughter, friendly competition, and maybe a few embarrassing moments along the way!
I. What is the Asshole Drinking Game
The Asshole Drinking Game, also known as Presidents, Kings, or Scum, is a card game designed for four or more players where the goal is simple: get rid of all your cards first! This drinking game for small groups is a game of strategy, a little bit of luck, and a whole lot of fun, making it a perfect addition to any party or social gathering.
The objective of the game is straightforward: be the first player to empty your hand of cards in each round. However, what sets this game apart is its unique social hierarchy system. Players are ranked based on their performance in each round, with the winner being crowned the “President” and the loser being branded the “Asshole.” This ranking system adds a layer of competitive fun and hilarious consequences to the gameplay. The President enjoys certain privileges in the next round, while the Asshole is often subjected to playful punishments or tasks.
It’s this dynamic mix of card play and social ranking that makes the Asshole drinking game so entertaining and engaging for players of all levels.
II. What You Need to Play
Before you unleash the chaos of the Asshole drinking game, let’s gather the essential supplies for a night of fun and friendly competition:
- Standard 52-card deck: A regular deck of playing cards is the heart of the game. Make sure it’s complete with all 52 cards and two Jokers.
- Alcoholic beverage of choice: The lifeblood of any good drinking game, choose a beverage that suits your group’s preferences. Beer is a classic choice, but feel free to get creative with cocktails, seltzers, or even wine. Remember, responsible consumption is key, so pace yourselves and enjoy the game safely.
- 4 or more players: The more the merrier! This game is designed for a group of friends ready for some laughter and friendly competition.
- Fun drinking vessels (optional): Ditch the boring red plastic cups and opt for some themed glasses, personalized mugs, or even silly novelty cups to add a touch of humor to your game.
- Creative drink variations (optional): Spice things up with themed cocktails inspired by the game’s social hierarchy. The President could enjoy a classy martini, while the Asshole might be stuck with a concoction of random ingredients.
III. Asshole Drinking Game Rules & Gameplay
Now that you’ve gathered your supplies and rallied your troops, let’s break down the rules of the Asshole drinking game so you can navigate the path to glorious victory (or shameful defeat).
Dealing:
- The Setup: Choose a player to be the dealer for the first round. The dealer shuffles a standard 52-card deck, removes the Jokers, and deals the cards one at a time, face down, to each player clockwise, starting with the player to their left.
- Equal Distribution: Cards are dealt until all cards are distributed. If the cards don’t divide equally, some players may have one more card than others.
Card Ranking:
- High to Low: The card ranking in this game is simple: Ace (highest), King, Queen, Jack, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 (lowest).
- Suits Don’t Matter: Unlike many card games, the suit of the card (hearts, diamonds, clubs, spades) is irrelevant in Asshole.
- Special Cards:
- 2: Clear Card: The mighty 2 is a game-changer! Playing a 2 clears the table, regardless of the previous cards played, and starts a new round. The player who played the 2 gets to start the new round.
- 3: Wild Card: The versatile 3 can be used as any card value (except a 2). It’s a handy tool for creating sets or beating higher-ranking cards.
Gameplay:
- First Play: The player to the left of the dealer starts the game by playing a single card or a set of cards of equal value (e.g., a pair of 8s, three Kings).
- Beating the Play: To beat the previous play, a player must play a higher-ranking card or set of cards. For example, a single 10 beats a single 9, a pair of Queens beats a pair of Jacks.
- Passing: If a player cannot beat the previous play, they must “pass” their turn and take a sip of their drink.
- Round End: The round ends when a player has played all of their cards.
Social Hierarchy:
- President: The first player to empty their hand in a round becomes the President for the next round. They get to start the next round and can enforce certain rules or privileges, such as making other players drink.
- Vice-President: The second player to empty their hand is the Vice-President. They may also have some privileges, depending on the group’s agreed-upon rules.
- Citizen: Players who finish in the middle of the pack are simply Citizens. They have no special powers or responsibilities.
- Vice-Asshole: The second-to-last player to empty their hand is the Vice-Asshole. They often have to perform a minor task or punishment.
- Asshole: The last player with cards in their hand is the Asshole for the next round. They have to deal the cards, serve drinks, and may be subject to other playful punishments devised by the President or the group.
The social hierarchy adds a fun layer of competition and consequences to the game, making each round exciting and unpredictable!
III. Asshole Drinking Game Strategies
Want to rise to the top of the social hierarchy and avoid the dreaded title of “Asshole”? Here are some strategies to help you become a card-slinging champion:
Strategic Card Play:
- Know Your Cards: Pay attention to the cards you have and the cards that have been played. Memorizing the card ranking and the special cards is crucial.
- Early Bird Gets the Worm: Aim to get rid of your high cards early, especially if you have pairs or sets. Holding onto high cards for too long can backfire if someone clears the table with a 2.
- Master the Wild Card: The 3 is your best friend! Use it strategically to create sets or beat higher-ranking cards.
- Conserve Your 2s: The 2 is a powerful card, so use it strategically. Don’t waste it early in the game unless it’s a guaranteed advantage.
Understanding the Social Hierarchy:
- President’s Advantage: As the President, use your power wisely. Make strategic decisions about when to make other players drink and when to focus on playing your cards.
- Asshole’s Predicament: If you’re the Asshole, try to observe the other players’ strategies and anticipate their moves. You’re at a disadvantage, but you can still try to make smart plays.
Observing Opponents:
- Watch and Learn: Pay close attention to the cards your opponents are playing and their drinking habits. This can give you valuable insights into their strategy and help you anticipate their moves.
- Bluffing (with Caution): While bluffing isn’t as common in Asshole as it is in poker, you can occasionally try to mislead your opponents by appearing confident even if you have a weak hand.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls:
- Don’t Be Greedy: Holding onto high cards for too long can lead to disaster if the table is cleared.
- Pace Yourself: Remember, this is a drinking game! Don’t get so caught up in the competition that you forget to pace yourself and enjoy the social aspect of the game.
- Stay Alert: Pay attention to the gameplay, even when it’s not your turn. Missing a crucial play or forgetting the rules can quickly land you in the Asshole seat.
IV. Variations of the Asshole Drinking Game
While the standard rules of the Asshole drinking game provide a solid foundation for a fun night, there’s always room for customization! Introducing variations and house rules can inject fresh excitement and create unique experiences for your group.
Popular Variations:
- Card Value Twists: Experiment with different card values to shake things up. For example:
- Reverse Rankings: Flip the script and make 4 the highest card and Ace the lowest.
- Special 7: Assign the 7 card a unique ability, like reversing the order of play or forcing the next player to draw a card.
- Social Climb: Allow the Asshole to move up in rank by successfully challenging another player. For example, if the Asshole beats the Vice-President in a hand, they swap positions.
- Drinking Challenges: Incorporate mini-drinking games or challenges triggered by certain cards or events. For example, drawing four of a kind could result in a waterfall chugging contest.
V. Asshole Drinking Game FAQs
Still have some burning questions about the rules, gameplay, or variations of the Asshole drinking game? We’ve got you covered!
Q: Can I play a 3 as a 2 to clear the table?
A: No, a 3 cannot be used as a 2. The 3 is a wild card and can be used as any other card value except a 2. Only a 2 can clear the table.
Q: What happens if two players run out of cards at the same time?
A: In case of a tie, the players who emptied their hands simultaneously share the higher ranking position. For example, if two players tie for first, they both become co-Presidents for the next round.
Q: Can the Asshole refuse to perform a punishment?
A: The game is meant to be lighthearted and fun. While the Asshole is traditionally subjected to playful punishments, it’s important to ensure everyone is comfortable and having a good time. If a player is uncomfortable with a punishment, it’s perfectly acceptable to skip it or choose a different one.
Q: Can I create my own variation of the game?
A: Absolutely! One of the best things about the Asshole drinking game is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different card values, rules, and additional actions to make the game your own.
Q: Is there a limit to how many players can participate?
A: While the game works best with 4-8 players, you can adjust the rules for larger groups. Using two decks of cards can accommodate more players and maintain a balanced game.
For more ideas, check out our complete guide to drinking game rules.
