Let’s face it, three’s a crowd only if you’re bored. A few well-chosen adult drinking games can transform a trio into a party. Whether you’re pregaming for a night out, winding down after a long day, or just hanging out on a weekend, these social games inject a splash of fun into any small gathering. We’ve got easy-to-learn options for beginner groups and more challenging games for experienced players. From quick party starters to longer, more involved drinking games, we have something for every occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together or a competitive game night. But remember, folks, drink responsibly. Pace yourselves, stay hydrated, and most importantly, keep it fun for everyone.
This guide focuses on drinking games specifically designed for three players, ensuring maximum engagement and hilarious moments for your small group. We’ll cover games that require no materials, card games, dice games, and even a few active games to get you moving. So grab your drinks, gather your friends, and prepare for a night of laughter and unforgettable memories!
Related: drinking games for small groups, Ultimate Drinking Game Guide with 100+ ideas for various occasions.
1. Cheers to the Governor
This beginner-friendly counting game is deceptively simple. It starts with basic counting but quickly descends into hilarious chaos as the rules change with every round. Perfect for three players, Cheers to the Governor is a fast-paced, social drinking game that will test your memory and have you laughing (and drinking) in no time. No materials are needed for this game, making it a great choice for parties, pre-games, or casual get-togethers.
Here’s how to play: Three players sit in a circle. Someone starts by saying “1,” the next person says “2,” and so on. The catch? Whoever reaches 21 shouts, “Cheers to the Governor!” takes a drink, and becomes the Governor. This newly appointed leader then gets to create a new rule. Maybe “3” becomes “meow,” or everyone has to clap instead of saying “7.” Or perhaps on “10” everyone has to stand up and spin around. Now you have to remember the original numbers and the new rule. Mess up, and you drink. Then it’s back to “1,” and the cycle of madness continues. This social interaction element is what makes Cheers to the Governor so entertaining for small groups. The rules stack up quickly, and keeping track becomes delightfully difficult, leading to plenty of laughs and lighthearted competition. This game is perfect for breaking the ice and encouraging interaction amongst friends.
2. Three Man Dice
This fast-paced dice game is all about luck, rolling, and the dreaded title of “Three Man.” Easy to learn and quick to play, Three Man Dice is perfect for three players who enjoy a bit of chaotic fun at parties or casual get-togethers. All you need are two dice and your favorite beverages.
Here’s how to play: First, each of the three players rolls the dice to determine the starting “Three Man” – the person with the lowest roll takes on this dubious honor. Then, players take turns rolling the dice. Here’s where the fun begins:
- Roll a 3: The Three Man drinks.
- Roll a 7: The person to the right drinks.
- Roll an 11: The person to the left drinks.
- Roll doubles: Choose any player (including yourself) to drink.
- Any other roll: You’re safe (for now)! Pass the dice to the next player.
The Three Man title keeps shifting whenever someone rolls a 3, so no one stays in the hot seat for too long. This constant change of pace, combined with the element of chance, and the social interaction of choosing who drinks, makes Three Man Dice a blast for small groups. It’s a great party starter or a fun way to add some excitement to a casual hangout. This game is perfect for when you want something simple, social, and easy to learn.
Read: Dice drinking games for adults.
3. Beer Pong for Three
Beer pong: a classic party game for a reason. Usually played as a team sport, it’s just as much fun (or even more chaotic) with three players. Think of it as a free-for-all pong brawl. This cup drinking game is easy to learn but offers plenty of competitive moments. Ideal for parties, pregames, or casual gatherings, you’ll need a table (or any flat surface), plastic cups, ping pong balls, and, of course, beer (or any beverage of your choice).
For a three-player game, set up like a regular game of beer pong, but arrange the cups in a triangle at three corners of the table – one triangle for each player. The objective is to eliminate your opponents by sinking ping pong balls into their cups. Players take turns trying to toss or bounce the ping pong balls into their opponents’ cups. If you make it, they drink and remove the cup. The first player to clear out the other two players’ cups wins bragging rights (and maybe buys the next round?). Three-player beer pong is great because it’s fast-paced, everyone is constantly involved, and alliances can shift on a dime, leading to dynamic social interactions. Just try not to hit anyone in the face with a rogue ping pong ball. Consider variations like different cup formations for added challenge or house rules for extra fun.
4. 7/11 Doubles
This fast-paced dice game is a race against the roll, a chugging challenge with a communal cup of questionable concoction. Easy to learn and quick to play, 7/11 Doubles is perfect for three players looking for a quick burst of boozy competition at a party or pregame. You’ll need two dice and a shared drink—something you’re prepared to down quickly (or regret).
Here’s how to play: Gather around a table with your two friends. Fill a cup in the center with your chosen beverage. The first player rolls the dice.
- Roll a 7, 11, or doubles: They choose another player to chug the central cup. That person chugs until the roller gets another 7, 11, or doubles.
- Any other roll: The roller passes the dice to the player on their left.
- Chugger finishes first: Refill the cup, and the player to the roller’s left takes the next turn.
- Roller hits 7, 11, or doubles before chugger finishes: The chugger stops, refills the cup, and the dice pass to the left.
7/11 Doubles is great for three players because there’s always someone rolling, someone chugging, and someone anticipating their turn in the hot seat. This constant action creates exciting social interaction, making it a memorable drinking game experience. It’s fast, it’s furious, and it’s perfect for adding some high-energy fun to your gathering. This game is all about luck and speed, so be prepared for some unpredictable outcomes (and some potentially messy spills).
5. Screw the Dealer
This drinking game with card blends luck, strategy, and a healthy dose of mischievous glee. Easy to learn but offering just enough of a mental challenge to keep things interesting, Screw the Dealer is perfect for three players at a party or casual get-together. All you need is a standard deck of cards and a thirst for (potentially) a lot of drinks. This game is known for its fast-paced, tense competition, and opportunities for dramatic comebacks (or spectacular downfalls).
Here’s how it works: One of the three players is the dealer. The dealer looks at the top card of the deck without showing anyone. The player to their left guesses the card (both rank and suit).
- Correct Guess: The dealer drinks.
- Incorrect Guess: The dealer reveals whether the actual card is higher or lower. The guesser gets another chance.
- Second Incorrect Guess: The guesser drinks the difference between their guess and the actual card’s value. Face cards are 10, Ace is 1 or 11—the guesser’s choice.
- Three Wrong Guesses: The guesser becomes the new dealer.
With three players, Screw the Dealer becomes a tense triangle of bluffing and deduction. The social interaction is high as players try to outsmart each other. It’s quick, engaging, and there’s always a chance for a dramatic comeback (or a spectacular downfall). Consider adding variations like different penalties for incorrect guesses to spice things up. This game is a great choice for those times when you want something simple to learn but with enough strategic depth to keep everyone engaged.
6. Sevens
Think you can count? Think again. Sevens is a deceptively simple counting game that will tie your tongue in knots and have you questioning your basic math skills. Easy to learn but surprisingly tricky to master, Sevens is a great drinking game for three players looking for a fast-paced, social experience at a party, pregame, or casual hangout. All you need are your drinks (beer, cocktails, or whatever you prefer) and a slightly twisted sense of humor.
Here’s how to play: Each of the three players grabs a drink. Someone starts counting aloud at “1,” the next person says “2,” and so on. But here’s the twist: any number with a seven in it or a multiple of seven, you replace with a hearty “F you.” And after each “F you,” the direction of counting reverses.
It sounds easy, but the quick changes in direction and the need to filter out sevens make it surprisingly challenging. This rapid-fire, verbal interaction requires concentration and quick thinking. Mess up, and you drink. With three players, Sevens becomes a high-energy exercise in mental agility. It’s the perfect icebreaker game to kick off a night of shenanigans or to add a bit of spice to a casual get-together. Consider variations like adding additional penalties for repeated mistakes or changing the “F you” to a different phrase for a more personalized experience.
7. Never Have I Ever Questions
Liven up your next small party or casual hangout with Never Have I Ever, the ultimate icebreaker game perfect for three players. This classic, easy-to-learn social drinking game requires nothing more than your favorite drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and a dash of daring. Get ready for hilarious revelations and friendly competition! Never Have I Ever is a guaranteed conversation starter, perfect for a trio looking to connect and create unforgettable memories.
Here’s how to play: Each person takes a turn saying, “Never have I ever…” followed by something they’ve never done. For example, “Never have I ever photobombed a stranger.” If anyone in the group has done it, they take a sip. If no one has done it, the person who made the statement drinks. Simple, right? But the fun is just beginning! This game is fantastic for smaller groups because it sparks engaging conversations, reveals fun facts about your friends, and creates a sense of playful rivalry. With just three players, the intimacy and shared laughter are amplified.
Want to take it up a notch? Consider themed prompts like travel adventures (“Never have I ever lost my passport”), workplace mishaps (“Never have I ever fallen asleep in a meeting”), or pop culture faux pas (“Never have I ever sung karaoke off-key”). For a more daring game, use risqué prompts – but always make sure everyone is comfortable. Check out our list of 200+ Never Have I Ever prompts to keep the game going all night!
8. King’s Cup
Unleash the mayhem with King’s Cup, a classic party card game perfect for adult gatherings, especially thrilling with three players. This medium-difficulty social game blends strategy and chance with hilarious, often unpredictable outcomes, making it ideal for a rowdy game night or pre-party. You’ll need a standard deck of cards, a large cup (the King’s Cup), and your favorite drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Get ready for a night of laughter, friendly competition, and a touch of chaos!
Here’s how to play: Players take turns drawing a card and following its rule. Each card brings a unique action:
- Two: You – Choose someone to drink.
- Three: Me – You drink.
- Four: Hit the Floor – Last one down drinks.
- Five: Guys – All male players drink.
- Six: Chicks – All female players drink.
- Seven: Heaven – Everyone points up; the last one drinks.
- Eight: Mate – Pick a drinking buddy; you drink together.
- Nine: Bust a Rhyme – Say a word, the next player rhymes, and so on. Mess up, you drink!
- Ten: Categories – Choose a category (e.g., car brands). Go around naming things in the category. Repeat an answer, you drink!
- Jack: Make a Rule – Invent a fun rule that everyone must follow.
- Queen: Question Master – Become the question master. Anyone who answers your questions drinks.
- King: Add to the King’s Cup – Pour some of your drink into the King’s Cup. Draw the fourth King, and you drink the whole thing!
King’s Cup is especially exciting with three players because the quick turns and unpredictable rules keep everyone engaged. The social interaction is high, creating a dynamic and fun atmosphere.
9. Truth or Drink
Get ready for some juicy revelations with Truth or Drink, a classic question-and-answer drinking game perfect for adult gatherings, especially engaging with three players. This easy-to-learn social game is simple: answer a question truthfully or take a drink. No complicated rules, just fun, laughter, and maybe a few embarrassing stories!
Here’s how it works: One person asks a question, and the person in the hot seat chooses between honesty and a sip of their beverage. Choose “truth,” and you answer honestly. Choose “drink,” and well, you drink! Questions can range from lighthearted (“What’s the most embarrassing song on your playlist?”) to more provocative (“Have you ever secretly wished you were a celebrity?”). The possibilities are endless! For extra fun and structure, consider using pre-written question cards or creating themed categories like travel, work, or relationships.
Truth or Drink truly shines with a small group, particularly three players. The intimate setting creates just the right amount of pressure, turning even simple questions into hilarious moments of truth. It’s the perfect way to deepen connections and learn surprising things about your closest friends.
Want to keep the conversation flowing? Check out our list of 217+ Truth or Drink questions! Remember, responsible drinking is key, and creating a comfortable and safe environment is essential. Set boundaries beforehand and be mindful of sensitive topics. Respect everyone’s comfort levels, and the fun will follow. After all, what happens at Truth or Drink, usually stays at Truth or Drink (unless it’s just too good not to share!).
10. Drunken Artists
Unleash your inner Picasso (or your inner stick-figure enthusiast) with Drunken Artists, a hilarious drawing and guessing game perfect for adult parties and casual get-togethers, especially entertaining with three players. This interactive, creative game is easy to learn but guarantees a night of laughter and absurd sketches. No artistic talent required – just a sense of humor and a willingness to embrace the ridiculous!
What you’ll need: Paper, pens or markers, a timer (your phone works great), and your favorite drinks. One person is the timekeeper, another the artist. The timekeeper secretly whispers a word or phrase to the artist and starts the timer. The artist tries to draw the word while the other player(s) guess. Someone guesses correctly? Stop the timer! No one guesses in time? The artist takes a big sip, and you start a new round! The artist takes a sip for every 20 seconds that elapsed (or adjust the “penalty” as you see fit).
With three players, Drunken Artists becomes a fast-paced, hilarious exchange of creative interpretations and increasingly frantic guesses. The smaller group dynamic intensifies the fun and makes for a truly memorable experience.
11. Count to Ten
Looking for a drinking game that’s deceptively simple yet hilariously challenging? Look no further than Count to Ten, a coordination-based party game perfect for small groups, especially fun with three players. This easy-to-learn social game requires nothing but yourselves and your drinks. Get ready for a surprising test of your non-verbal communication skills!
Here’s the gist: Stand or sit in a circle, facing each other. The goal is to count aloud to ten as a group. The catch? No two people can say the same number at the same time. If two (or more) players say the same number simultaneously, they both drink. Sounds easy, right? Think again!
This interactive game becomes a tricky exercise in anticipation, non-verbal cues, and strategic pauses. You’ll find yourselves second-guessing, overthinking every number, and erupting in laughter (and taking drinks) more often than you’d expect. With just three players, the tension and hilarity are amplified – making it a perfect icebreaker or party starter.
12. Two Truths and a Lie
Want to test your friends’ deception detection skills (and your own ability to craft convincing lies)? Two Truths and a Lie, a classic social deduction game, is perfect for adult gatherings, especially engaging and revealing with three players. This easy-to-learn icebreaker requires nothing but your drinks and a good poker face. Get ready for a night of laughter, intrigue, and uncovering hidden truths!
Here’s how to play: Each person comes up with three “facts” about themselves – two true and one a lie. Take turns sharing your three statements. The others guess which one is the fabrication. Guess correctly, and the liar drinks. Guess wrong, and you take a sip! With just three players, the game becomes intensely personal, leading to deeper conversations and hilarious moments of discovery.
For example: “I once met a celebrity,” “I can speak three languages fluently,” and “I’ve climbed Mount Everest.” Which one is the lie? The challenge lies in crafting believable lies and deciphering your friends’ carefully constructed facades. To create convincing lies, try blending them with elements of truth or using believable exaggerations.
13. I’m Going on a (Drunken) Picnic
Ready to test your memory and unleash your inner comedian? “I’m Going on a (Drunken) Picnic” is a classic memory-based party game perfect for casual gatherings, especially hilarious with three players. This easy-to-learn social game requires nothing but your drinks and a dash of creativity. Get ready for escalating absurdity and plenty of laughter!
How to play: The first player starts by saying, “I’m going on a picnic, and I’m bringing…” followed by an item (e.g., “a giant inflatable banana”). The next player repeats the phrase, lists the previous item, and adds their own (e.g., “I’m going on a picnic, and I’m bringing a giant inflatable banana and a singing toothbrush”). The list grows with each turn, making it increasingly difficult to remember everything. Forget an item or mess up the order? Take a sip! That’s the “drunken” part!
With three players, the quick turns and the escalating absurdity of the picnic basket become hilariously challenging. The intimate group size makes the shared laughter and friendly competition even more enjoyable.
14. Land Mines
Get ready for explosive fun with Land Mines, a skill-based drinking game that combines chugging, spinning, and strategic can placement. Perfect for adult parties and casual get-togethers, Land Mines adds a unique twist to traditional party games. This fast-paced, competitive game is especially exciting with three players!
What you’ll need: Cans of your favorite beverage (or cups), a coin, and a sturdy table to serve as your battlefield. Each player starts with a full can or cup. The first player spins the coin on its edge and tries to chug their drink before the coin falls flat. Succeed? Slam your empty can on the table as a “landmine.” Coin falls first? Stop drinking and finish the rest on your next turn.
These empty cans become obstacles – land mines! On subsequent turns, if your spinning coin hits a landmine, take a penalty drink! With three players, the table quickly becomes a crowded minefield, turning each spin into a tense and exciting gamble. The strategic placement of your “land mines” becomes key to sabotaging your opponents!
15. Mr. Freeze
Inject some hilarious paranoia and playful competition into your next party or casual get-together with Mr. Freeze, a fun and easy-to-learn observation game perfect for adults. This interactive social game is less about drinking and more about messing with your friends, but the drinks add an extra layer of playful punishment. Mr. Freeze is especially entertaining with three players, creating a constant undercurrent of suspicion and laughter.
Here’s how to play: One person is designated as “Mr. Freeze.” At any point, Mr. Freeze suddenly freezes in place – holding a pose, making a funny face, or simply stopping mid-action. The other players must notice and freeze as well, mimicking a statue. The last person to freeze takes a sip of their drink and becomes the next Mr. Freeze!
With three players, you’ll be constantly side-eyeing each other, questioning every twitch, and jumping at every sudden movement. The close proximity and constant observation amplify the paranoia and the hilarity.
16. Chandelier
Get ready for a whirlwind of chaotic fun with Chandelier, a fast-paced, competitive drinking game that combines the best of beer pong and flip cup. This high-energy party game is perfect for adult gatherings, especially wild with three players. Grab your cups, ping pong balls, and favorite beverages, and prepare for a night of bouncing, chugging, and flipping!
Here’s how to set up the mayhem: Arrange your cups in a circle, each one-third full. In the center, place one cup upside down, and balance a full cup on top of it – this is your chandelier.
Now for the action: Take turns trying to bounce ping pong balls into the cups. Land it in someone’s cup? They drink and refill. Land it in the chandelier? Everyone chugs their drink! Then, the real chaos begins: everyone races to flip their empty cup upside down on the table. The last one to successfully flip their cup has to chug the entire chandelier!
With three players, Chandelier is a non-stop frenzy of bouncing balls, frantic chugging, and aggressive flipping. The smaller group dynamic intensifies the competition and makes for a truly unforgettable (and potentially messy) experience.
17. Friend Trivia
Think you know your friends inside and out? Put your knowledge to the test with Friend Trivia, a hilarious drinking game designed to reveal secrets, expose inside jokes, and strengthen your bond – or at least provide plenty of laughs along the way. This easy-to-learn social trivia game is perfect for adult gatherings, especially entertaining with three players.
What you’ll need: Paper, pens, a bowl, and your favorite drinks. Each person writes down three facts – one per slip of paper – about themselves or someone else in the group. Think embarrassing stories, hidden talents, or bizarre childhood memories. Toss all the slips into the bowl.
One player draws a slip, reads it aloud, counts to three, and everyone points at who they think the fact is about. Wrong guesses? Drink up! If everyone guesses correctly, the person the fact is about takes a sip.
With three players, Friend Trivia becomes a delightful game of targeted revelations and inside jokes. You’ll learn things you never knew, expose some long-held secrets, and probably end up questioning your friends’ sanity (all in good fun, of course!). The intimate group size makes the shared laughter and friendly teasing even more enjoyable.
18. Rage Cage
Prepare for a chaotic showdown with Rage Cage, a competitive drinking game that takes beer pong to a whole new level. Imagine ping pong meets gladiatorial combat, but with plastic cups instead of swords. This fast-paced, strategic game is perfect for adult parties and casual get-togethers, and it’s especially thrilling with three players!
What you’ll need: A “cage” (any kind of frame will do – get creative!), ping pong balls, cups, and your drinks of choice. Set up your cups inside the cage.
Here’s how to play: With three players, you can rotate as the “cage master,” the one who defends the cups against the other two. Or, form teams of two and one, switching up the teams each round. Teams take turns bouncing ping pong balls into their opponents’ cups. Sink a ball? The other team drinks and removes the cup. First team to clear out all their opponents’ cups wins!
Rage Cage is an exciting blend of skill and strategy. Where you place your cups inside the cage is key to victory. Develop your bouncing techniques and perfect your aim to dominate the competition! The confined space adds an element of controlled chaos, making every shot a thrilling gamble.
19. Drunk Waiter
Get ready for a race against dizziness and gravity with Drunk Waiter, a hilarious and chaotic party game that combines coordination, speed, and the inevitable spillage of beverages. Perfect for adult gatherings, especially entertaining with three players, Drunk Waiter is sure to deliver laughter, friendly competition, and some memorable wipeouts.
What you’ll need: A tray, some cups, and your drinks (or water, if you’re feeling sensible – or playing indoors).
Here’s how to play: Load the tray with cups of your chosen liquid. One person is the referee. The other two spin around ten times and then race to a designated finish line while balancing the tray. First one there without spilling wins! The loser (or anyone who spills along the way) drinks.
With three players, Drunk Waiter is a perfect blend of competition and chaos. Take turns being the referee and the racers, and watch the hilarity unfold! The spinning adds an element of unpredictable fun, practically guaranteeing some spectacular spills (and some very wet floors – so consider playing outdoors!).
20. Drunk Jenga
Take the classic game of Jenga, add a splash of alcohol and a dash of creativity, and what do you get? Drunk Jenga! This hilarious and suspenseful party game takes the original Jenga experience and adds a layer of unpredictable consequences. Perfect for adult gatherings, especially entertaining with three players, Drunk Jenga is sure to be a hit at your next get-together.
What you’ll need: A Jenga set, your favorite drinks, and a pen to write some rules on the blocks.
Before you start, write a different rule on each block. Get creative! “Take a drink,” “Sing a song,” “Do a dance,” “Tell an embarrassing story” – the possibilities are endless.
Gameplay is the same as regular Jenga: carefully pull a block, follow the rule written on it, and stack the block on top. But now, every move comes with a potential penalty – or a ridiculous challenge!
With three players, Drunk Jenga is a perfect blend of suspense and silliness. The tension builds with each pulled block, and the personalized rules add a layer of unpredictable fun. The smaller group dynamic also means more frequent turns and more opportunities for laughter and friendly competition.
Need some rule inspiration? Check out our mega-list of 60+ creative Drunk Jenga rules!
