Presidents Card Game Rules: A Game Where Strategy Meets Chaos

The Presidents Card Game, also known as “Asshole” or “Scum,” is a classic drinking game that combines strategy, luck, and social dynamics. It’s a game where players aim to get rid of their cards as quickly as possible, but the real fun lies in the shifting hierarchy and the unpredictable alliances that form during gameplay. Whether you’re playing with friends at a party or in a more competitive setting, the Presidents Card Game offers endless entertainment and a chance to flex your strategic muscles.
The Basics of the Game
Objective
The primary goal of the game is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards. The player who does so becomes the “President,” while the last player to finish becomes the “Asshole” (or “Scum”). The hierarchy established in one round carries over to the next, influencing the rules and dynamics of subsequent games.
Setup
- Players: The game is best played with 4-7 players, though it can accommodate more with slight modifications.
- Deck: Use a standard 52-card deck. For larger groups, you can combine two decks.
- Dealing: Shuffle the deck and deal all cards evenly among the players. Some players may have one more card than others, which is fine.
Card Hierarchy
Cards are ranked from highest to lowest:
2 (highest) > A > K > Q > J > 10 > 9 > 8 > 7 > 6 > 5 > 4 > 3 (lowest).
The 2 card is special—it can be played at any time and resets the current play, allowing the player to start a new sequence.
Gameplay Mechanics
Starting the Game
The player with the 3 of clubs (or the lowest card if the 3 of clubs isn’t in play) starts the game by playing that card. Play then proceeds clockwise.
Playing Cards
Players must play a card or set of cards that are equal to or higher in rank than the previous play. For example, if a single 7 is played, the next player must play a 7 or higher. If multiple cards are played (e.g., two 5s), the next player must play the same number of cards of equal or higher rank.
Special Rules
- Passing: If a player cannot or chooses not to play, they must pass. Once a player passes, they are out of the current round until all other players have passed or played their cards.
- Resetting the Play: If a player plays a 2, the sequence resets, and the next player can play any card or set of cards.
- Consecutive Plays: If multiple players pass in a row, the last player to have played a card starts a new sequence.
Hierarchy and Roles
At the end of each round, players are assigned roles based on their performance:
- President: The first player to get rid of all their cards. The President enjoys privileges in the next round, such as exchanging cards with the Asshole.
- Vice President: The second player to finish.
- Neutral: Players who finish in the middle.
- Vice Asshole: The second-to-last player to finish.
- Asshole: The last player to finish. The Asshole has the least desirable role and must perform tasks like dealing cards or serving drinks.
These roles carry over to the next round, creating a dynamic where players strive to climb the hierarchy and avoid the dreaded Asshole position.
Strategies and Tips
- Conserve High Cards: Save your high-ranking cards (like 2s and Aces) for critical moments when you need to reset the play or force others to pass.
- Observe Opponents: Pay attention to the cards other players are passing or playing. This can give you clues about their remaining cards.
- Bluffing: Sometimes, playing a lower card strategically can mislead opponents into thinking you have a weaker hand.
- Team Up: In larger groups, forming temporary alliances can help you eliminate stronger players.
Variations
The Presidents Card Game has numerous variations, each adding unique twists to the gameplay:
- Drinking Rules: Incorporate drinking challenges for players who pass or finish last.
- Role Reversal: In some versions, the Asshole and President switch roles after a set number of rounds.
- Joker Cards: Add jokers as wild cards that can be played at any time.
FAQs
Q: Can I play the Presidents Card Game with fewer than 4 players?
A: While it’s possible, the game is more enjoyable with 4-7 players. With fewer players, consider modifying the rules or combining decks.
Q: What happens if two players finish at the same time?
A: If two players finish simultaneously, the player who played their last card first takes the higher position in the hierarchy.
Q: Are there any penalties for breaking the rules?
A: While the game is generally casual, some groups impose penalties like taking a drink or performing a silly task for rule violations.
Q: Can I play this game without alcohol?
A: Absolutely! The Presidents Card Game is just as fun without drinking. Simply remove the drinking rules and focus on the strategic and social aspects.
The Presidents Card Game is a perfect blend of strategy, luck, and social interaction. Whether you’re aiming for the top spot or just trying to avoid the Asshole role, this game guarantees laughter, competition, and unforgettable moments. So gather your friends, shuffle the deck, and let the chaos begin!