You have organized the best party. Delicious appetizers are flowing in. Everyone seems to be enjoying it. But what next? How do you keep your guests entertained? Well, you can talk about the weather and other stuff only for a bit, and then it becomes stale. To keep the mood cheerful, you need something extra, and you can do that with the best card games for adults, available online and offline.
These card games are perfect for any game night or a get-together to ensure you give your guests a memorable time. We have curated a list of fun card games for adults that will tickle your brain as you take on the challenge of defeating your opponents. What’s even more fun is that some of these card games offer real money games where you can win real cash upon winning the game. Without further ado, let’s unpack the best card games for adults that let you have the time of your life!
15 Top Card Games For Adults You Need To Try Now
So, here are the best card games for your next game night.
| Card Game for Adults | No. of Players |
| Spades | 4 (2 teams of 2) |
| Cube Solitaire | 1 |
| 3 Card Flush | 2-6 |
| Draw 4 | 2-10 |
| Gin Rummy | 2 |
| Uno | 2-10 |
| Poker | 2-10 |
| Arkham Horror | 1-6 |
| Cards Against Humanity | 4–20+ |
| The Game of Things | 4 or more |
| Exploding Kittens | 2-5 (expandable) |
| Rummy 500 | 2-8 |
| Drunk Stoned or Stupid | 3 or more |
| Russian Roulette | 2-6 |
| Crazy Eights | 2 or more |
1. Spades
Spades is a classic trick-taking adult card game that’s like a fusion of strategy and partnership skills. Played by four players in fixed teams, having great communication skills is crucial in winning the game.
The rules of the card game are simple. Four players are divided into two teams. Here, you must win tricks through bidding and card play. The sum of bids should not equal the total number of tricks available. The first team to reach a predetermined score wins the game, and the game ends.
You can easily play this card game for adults on MPL! All you have to do is download the app and get started for free. But the fun part is that you can also play for real cash on MPL. You can win from $5 to $50,000 daily. So, take the fun to a whole new level. The rules of Spades on MPL remain the same and are pretty straightforward.
This is one of the best card games for adults you can play online!
Key Features:
- Trick-taking partnership game
- Requires strategy and communication
- Bidding and trump suit dynamics
- Popular in social and tournament play
Game Specifications:
- 4 players in fixed partnerships of 2 on each team
- Played with a standard deck
- The objective of the game is to win the most tricks
- Bidding determines trump and target
Pros:
- Strategic depth and teamwork
- Engaged and interesting gameplay
- Suitable for social and competitive play
- Rules are simple and easy to understand
- It can be played online on the MPL gaming platform
Cons:
- Requires a learning curve and understanding of the game
- Dependency on a partner’s skill may not be for everyone
2. Cube Solitaire
Cube Solitaire is played solo. However, the game is perfect for a game night. Use a standard 52-card deck and shuffle and deal. Arrange the cards in four foundation piles, one for each suit, starting with Ace and ascending to King. Move cards in descending order and alternating colors. For example, place a red 7 on a black 8. Create descending tableau piles but with the same suit and not a corresponding color deck. Move cards to reveal face-down ones.
Move Aces to the foundation piles when available. Build on them sequentially. To score points, you must finish the card game. It is a fast-paced game you can play alone or with a whole group!
Key Features:
- Solo player
- Strategic card placement is essential
- There are multiple ways to play
Pros:
- This is a solitaire with a unique twist
- Strategic card choices are important
- Varied gameplay options are available
Cons:
- It may lack depth for some
- Limited multiplayer options
3. 3 Card Flush
Next on the list of fun card games for adults is 3 Card Flush. For this game, grab a standard 52-card deck. You can also play 3-Card Flush online on the MPL app. Each player receives three cards, aiming for a flush, where all cards share the same suit.
For this, secure a three-card hand of the same suit. Higher-ranked flushes beat lower ones. During the game, you must assess your hand’s flush potential. Discard and draw up to three new cards if seeking a better flush. Establish a scoring system based on flush strength. Higher flushes earn more points. Set a target score or play rounds. The player with the most points at the end emerges victorious.
Balance risk and reward and opt for a higher flush. But beware of opponents disrupting your plans. 3 Card Flush is a swift, engaging card game, which requires intuition and strategic decision-making in pursuit of the perfect flush.
How to play the game on MPL?
First, a boot amount is collected before the round begins. You match the bet by playing the same amount. As the game progresses, the best hand wins. You can easily play this card game for free. But if it is a game night and you want to spice things up, you can also play the card game for real cash prizes on MPL. You can win between $1 to $50,000 daily.
Key Features:
- Quick and simple poker variant
- The main focus lies on flush combinations
- Fast-paced rounds
Game Specifications:
- Rules are simple
- The objective is to form a flush
- Uses a standard deck of playing cards
Pros:
- Fast and easy to learn
- Luck and strategy elements play a role
- Quick rounds and a fast pace
- You can play online on the MPL gaming platform
- Suitable for casual play or ideal as a party game
Cons:
- Dependent on card draws
- It may lack complexity for some
4. Draw 4
Draw 4 is another amazing game that offers pure fun. It is one of the best card games for adults looking for leisure. It is an easy game that can be enjoyed with your friends for rounds of laughter and enjoyment. Players start with seven cards. The objective of the game is to be the first to discard all cards. While it is not exactly like Uno, we can say it is a more fun variant.
The Draw 4 card, a wildcard with disruptive potency, makes the next player draw four cards. So, with each turn, there is a sense of suspense and strategic complexity. Mastering the timing of this wildcard becomes so important.
You can play Draw 4 on the MPL app online and win real cash. You can choose to play the free game or try your hand at the real money games to win real cash prizes between $5 to $50,000 daily.
Key Features:
- Fast-paced card game
- Involves drawing 4 cards for a penalty
- Adds unpredictability and challenge
- Fast-paced and engaging gameplay
Game Specifications:
- The card game uses seven cards
- The objective is to be the first to empty hand
- Color and number matching is important
Pros:
- Introduces excitement and chaos
- Quick rounds, making it fun
- Maintains Uno simplicity
- Adds a layer of thrill
- Available online on platforms like MPL
Cons:
- Can be too disruptive
5. Gin Rummy
Moving on to the best classic card game, Gin Rummy. Played with a standard card deck, this fun card game for adults is your perfect party game.
In this game, you use a standard 52-card deck for two players. Each player receives ten cards in a two-player game or seven in a three or four-player game. The objective is to form sets (three or four cards of the same rank) and runs (three or more cards in sequential order of the same suit) and reduce deadwood and unmatched cards.
Players alternate turns, drawing from the deck or discard pile and discarding a card to minimize deadwood. You must declare “Gin” when all the cards form valid sets or runs. Also, you can call “Knock” if deadwood is below a certain threshold.
The first player to reach a set score wins the round. Here, you play multiple rounds for an extended game and the one with the most points wins the final game. So, even if the night is long, you have this card game to keep you company and ensure you have the best time with your friends.
Gin Rummy can be played on the MPL app for free or for real cash prizes where you can win up to $100 to $50,000 daily.
Key Features:
- Two-player Rummy variant
- The focus is on sets and runs
- Strategy is important in discarding and picking
- It is a score-based competition
Game Specifications:
- Two players
- Standard 52-card deck
- The objective is to form sets and runs
- You get points for unmatched cards
Pros:
- It is a strategic and fun card game
- The competition is direct
- A balanced mix of skill and luck
- Quick and engaging
- Can be played online on MPL
Cons:
- May require multiple rounds
- Having the necessary skills is important
6. Uno
Uno is a perfect game regardless of your age. This is one of the ideal card games for adults for a get-together or a chill-out session with your friends. It is a quirky game for sure!
Uno is a card game for 2-10 players. It starts with a 108-card deck featuring four suits (red, yellow, green, and blue), special action cards, and wild cards.
The objective of the game is to be the first one to discard all the cards. Players match either the number or color of the top discard pile card.
Special cards add twists, such as you can skip a player’s turn, reversing, or forcing the next player to draw two cards.
Key Features:
- Colorful and iconic card game
- Comes with a card of matching colors and numbers
- It has special action cards to add to the fun
- It is fast-paced and family-friendly
Game Specifications:
- 2-10 players
- Needs a Uno card deck
- The objective is to discard your cards quickly
Pros:
- Easy to learn
- Doesn’t require special skills
- Suitable for all ages
- Provides casual fun
- Portable and versatile
Cons:
- Luck-based
- Limited strategy
- Repetitive for some players
7. Poker
Poker is one of the most thrilling card games for adults played by 2-10 players and is truly the perfect card game. It begins with a standard 52-card deck. Chips or money represent bets.
However, it is important to familiarize yourself with hand values, from high card to royal flush. The goal is to form the strongest hand. Determine the forced bets to kick off the betting rounds, either blinds (in Texas Hold’em) or antes.
In Poker, you must bet, raise, or fold in multiple rounds. Tactics involve reading opponents and strategic betting. You can take it up a notch and give it a full set-up like a casino to entertain your guests.
Key Features:
- Has various poker variants
- Betting and bluffing elements make it fun
- Diverse strategies make the game
Game Specifications:
- 2-10 players.
- Standard poker cards
- The objective is to win chips or money
Pros:
- Strategic depth is a crucial part of the game
- Bluffing and psychology make it interesting
- Tournaments and cash games are fun
Cons:
- Requires knowledge and skill
- Gambling addiction can become a problem
- It becomes lengthy in some variants
- Potential for financial loss
8. Arkham Horror
Now, let’s move on to something different with Arkham Horror! This is not an NSFW card game but is quirky for sure. Here, you must embark on a cooperative journey with 1-6 players. Each assumes a unique investigator role in the eerie town of Arkham.
This is one of the best card games for adults and here, cosmic horrors threatening Arkham must be solved by you. So, as a game night card game, it lets you enjoy it to the fullest.
Players strive to solve mysteries, seal gates to other dimensions, and survive supernatural encounters. So, if you love the supernatural this is for you. Remember, victory hinges on sealing gates and solving mysteries before the Ancient One awakens, and failure to do so results in cosmic devastation.
Key Features:
- Cooperative Lovecraftian deck-building adventure
- Rich narrative and story-driven card game
- Let you investigate horrors in H.P. Lovecraft’s Universe
- Expansion pack available
Game Specifications:
- 1-4 players
- Living card game (LCG) format
- Scenario-based campaign structure
Pros:
- Deep, engaging storytelling experience
- Strategic deck-building and customization
- High-quality artwork and components
Cons:
- Initial investment for the core set
- Learning curve for rules and mechanics
9. Cards Against Humanity
Playing card games for adults is always fun and they add a charm to any get-together you hold. We are talking about Cards Against Humanity, a game you can play with family members or strangers alike.
In this fun card game for adults, you create the funniest, most absurd, or outrageous card combinations of phrases using white answer cards to complete black prompt cards.
In Cards Against Humanity, you must choose a Card Czar (rotates each round). The Card Czar draws a black prompt card and reads it aloud. Other players choose the funniest white answer card from their hand. Then submit the chosen cards face-down to the Card Czar. The Card Czar shuffles and reads all submitted cards. They pick the funniest combination and award the black card to the winning player. Basically, to score points, it is vital to collect black cards!
Remember, Cards Against Humanity is known for its irreverent and adult humor, so it’s essential to ensure that all players are comfortable with the content before playing Cards Against Humanity and have the same twisted sense as you!
Key Features:
- Irreverent and humorous content
- Easy to learn and play
- Ideal for large-group entertainment
- Expansion pack available
Game Specifications:
- 4–20+ Players
- Ages 17+
- 30–90 minutes per game
- Includes 500 white and 100 black cards.
Pros:
- Hilarious and unpredictable card game
- Encourages creativity and wit
- Perfect for adult social gatherings
- Infinite replayability with expansions
Cons:
- Content may offend some players
- Dependency on players’ sense of humor
- Limited strategic depth
10. The Game of Things
If you are looking for a card game with fast gameplay, you will not be disappointed with the Game of Things. Here, all the cards are topic cards and you can guess who wrote each response. This is one of the card games for adults where you will need 4 or more players. Before you start, distribute response slips and pencils. Then, choose a reader for the round.
The reader selects a topic card. Players write humorous responses anonymously. Responses are read aloud. Players guess who wrote each response. Points are awarded for correct guesses. The reader’s role gets rotated and goes on from one to the next person. You accumulate points as you play and the one with the highest points wins. It is a great card game to play with your close friends.
Key Features:
- Generates laughter with creative answers
- Suitable for diverse groups
- The card game is easy for all to understand
- Encourages imaginative and witty responses
Game Specifications:
- 4 or more players
- 14 and up
- You will need cards, pencils, and notepads
- Expansion packs available
- Typically lasts 30-60 minutes
Pros:
- Adaptable for various occasions
- Encourages lively group discussions
- Different answers each time
- Minimal preparation required
Cons:
- Interpretation can vary
- Limited cards in the base set
- Some prompts may be sensitive
11. Exploding Kittens
If there is one activity that almost everyone loves, it is playing card games or a board game! However, when you are hosting a party, you need an adult card game that everyone will enjoy. This is where Exploding Kittens come into the picture.
To start the game, you shuffle the deck of cards. Deal each player 7 cards. Here, you must insert the Exploding Kittens as a random card.
Then, each player draws a card from the deck. It is important that you avoid drawing an Exploding Kitten.
Use a Defuse card when drawing an Exploding Kitten and place the Exploding Kitten back into the deck. This is definitely one of the best games due to the excitement it offers. Be the last player remaining and you win!
Key Features:
- Humorous and quirky card illustrations
- Simple rules for quick gameplay
- Card game involves strategic and unpredictable twists
- Suitable for a wide age range
Game Specifications:
- Players: 2-5 (expandable with expansion packs)
- Playing Time is 15 minutes
- Ages anywhere from 7 and up
- Components include 56 cards and instructions.
Pros:
- Fast-paced, engaging gameplay
- Easy to learn for all ages
- Portable and suitable for travel
- Expansion packs for added variety
Cons:
- Limited strategic depth for some
- Luck-based gameplay may frustrate
- Not ideal for serious gamers
- Card artwork might not appeal to other players
12. Rummy 500
Let’s circle back to the classics. One game that you cannot miss during your next get-together is Rummy 500.
The goal of Rummy 500 is to score points by forming sets and runs of cards and reducing the overall point value of your hand. It can be played with 2 to 8 players and a standard deck is used.
Each player is dealt 10 cards in a 2-player game, seven cards in a 4-player game, and six cards in a 6-player game. The remaining cards form the draw pile.
Players can lay down sets of three or four cards of the same rank (e.g., 7-7-7) or runs of three or more cards in consecutive order of the same suit (e.g., 3-4-5 of hearts).
Sets and runs can be laid down at any turn, but a player must have met the initial meld requirement before doing so. The first person who creates sets and runs of all the cards wins. The play continues till the first player reaches 500 points. This is one of the games of the Rummy family that you can enjoy with your close ones, both young people and adults alike!
Key Features:
- Classic Rummy Variant
- The objective is to reach 500 Points
- Melds of sets and runs
- Two-player or multiplayer card game
Game Specifications:
- Uses a standard 52-card deck
- Draw and discard phases
- Points system for melds
Pros:
- Strategic card combinations are required
- Suitable for 2-6 Players
- Engaging and competitive gameplay
- Flexible house rule adaptations
Cons:
- Requires concentration and skill
- Learning the game may take time
- Longer sessions
13. Drunk Stoned or Stupid
Another popular card game for adults is Drunk Stoned. Here, you get 250 card prompts to decide who is most likely to do that. For instance, you will get prompts like waking up with half a burrito in bed. And you must guess. But this is a game where no one in the end wins. Yup, no losers or winners here, only fun.
It is like a rapid-fire game blended with Never Have I Ever but better. Drunk Stoned is unlike other fun card games for adults you may have played. You can play this game with three or more players.
Key Features:
- Hilarious adult party game
- 250 prompt cards included
- Designed for groups of friends.
Game Specifications:
- 3 or More Players.
- Quick and easy setup.
- No board game pieces
- Average playtime is 30-60 minutes
Pros:
- Engaging and funny card game
- Playing this game appeals to a larger audience
- Simple rules and ideal for parties
- Offers laughter and good vibes
- Different from other card games for adults
Cons:
- Certain cards or prompts may be uncomfortable
- Not ideal for all social settings
14. Russian Roulette
Russian Roulette is a fun card game for adults that mimics the infamous lethal game of chance. Basically, it is a fictional card depiction of Russian Roulette and is played with three or more players.
A standard deck of playing cards. In this game, you first decide a shooter, who takes the shuffled deck and holds it face down. The shooter then randomly selects a card from the deck without looking at it and places it in the center of the table. If the card is any color other than red (black cards), the shooter survives, and the turn passes to the next player. The last remaining player who has not drawn a red card is the winner.
Key Features:
- Risk and suspense elements
- Simulates the Russian roulette concept
- Strategic bluffing and deception
- Quick and intense card game
Game Specifications:
- 2-6 players
- A standard deck of cards
- Special “bullet” card inclusion
- Elimination-based game structure
Pros:
- Thrilling suspense and excitement
- Simple rules and easy-to-learn
- Quick rounds and ideal for parties
- Encourages strategic thinking and bluffing
Cons:
- Potentially controversial theme
- Elimination may disappoint players
- Not suitable for all audiences
- Relies heavily on chance
15. Crazy Eights
Crazy Eights is a classic card game for 2 or more players. Here, you use a standard 52-card deck, and the objective is to be the first to discard all your cards.
Play revolves around matching the top card of the discard pile by either rank or suit. Eights are wild and can be played at any time, allowing the player to declare a new suit. Strategic play, card counting, and adapting to opponents’ moves make Crazy Eights a lively and engaging game. It is suitable for all age groups and perfect for family meet-ups!
Key Features:
- Easy to learn and play the card game
- Adaptable to various rule variations
- Games are typically short
- Suitable for all age groups
Game Specifications:
- A standard 52-card deck is used
- The objective is to be the first to discard all cards
- Has a special card where eights are wild
- Players match rank or suit
Pros:
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Quick rounds and ideal for casual play
- Many variations add replay value
- Requires only a standard deck, so minimal set-up
Cons:
- Relies on luck often.
- It can become monotonous over time.
