Are you looking for an exciting game to play with more than four people? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of some of the best card games – both classic and modern – that you can indulge in with four players or more!
From classics like Euchre and Hearts to more contemporary ideas featuring sophisticated elements, such as UNO and Exploding Kittens, this list has something for everyone who loves playing cards.
So get ready for some good-natured competition and fun times — gather your friends around the table (or virtual screen), and let’s delve into the world of card gaming!
A Mix of Classic and Modern Cards for More Options
The more players, the merrier, right? The same goes for card games! Whether it’s traditional or modern, having more options to choose from always makes the experience that much better.
Hearts
If you’re unfamiliar with this classic card game, it’s time to learn all about it! Hearts is a trick-taking card game for four players, where the goal of each player is to avoid getting cards from the Hearts suit since they’re equivalent to one penalty point. As you can imagine, the gameplay is competitive, challenging, and delightful!
It was invented many years ago and has become a popular pastime for millions worldwide. You can even play Hearts online through a mobile app or browser! The best part is they’re free and are based on the real-life card game.
Quick facts about Hearts:
- Typically played by four players
- Numerous variations: Black Maria, Black Lady, etc.
- A standard deck of 52 cards is required.
If you want to test your strategy skills with some luck, try playing on sites like
Hearts.land. Become the master of this classic card game as you challenge your friends during game nights or online!
Phase 10
Although Phase 10 was invented in 1982 and is a variant of Rummy, some might say it isn’t a “modern” card game. However, it stood out since it has some similarities to UNO. Therefore, it can still pass as a new game that more than four players can play.
It was developed by Kenneth Johnson and sold under Mattel’s brand, which made it very popular. It consists of a special deck of cards equivalent to two standard playing decks, which two to six players can play.
Since technology has become more accessible, the mobile version of Phase 10 is now downloadable on mobile devices for free. Phase 10: World Tour has many exciting features, such as its Journey mode, which is accessible and playable offline!
UNO
The infamous and modern card game that everyone loves is UNO. It requires two to ten players, though it’s best to play with four players for the full experience. The goal is to be the first player to get rid of all their cards while wreaking havoc.
The game has special cards, also known as wild cards, which can help turn the tides of battle. These cards are also one of the reasons why some friendships are nearly destroyed! It’s a fast game and incredibly accessible due to its availability on various apps or browser-based games.
UNO is perfect for game nights, free time, or if you and your friends have nothing to do. If you want to try the mobile version, you’ll fall in love with its features, such as playing in two-player teams, competing in tournaments, and joining the UNO!™ Mobile Community Cup!
Exploding Kittens – The Game
If you’re not a Netflix member, you’ll have to purchase Exploding Kittens on the Google Play store for $1.99 if you want the digital version. However, it’s worth the dollar since this modern card game features explosions, action, and cats! Although dubbed a simple card game, it’s incredibly strategy-based and challenging.
Some features you should know:
- Played by two to five players
- A Russian-roulette-style card game
- New cards exclusive to the app
- Compete online against strangers
Exploding Kittens was developed by Elan Lee, Matthew Inman, and Shane Small. It was intended to be a Kickstarter project seeking $10,000, but it unsurprisingly reached its goal in eight minutes! No wonder this game has become so successful, even if it was still a partial project!
Euchre
A fast-paced classic card game that many adults enjoy is Euchre. It’s ideally played by four players divided into two pairs. The number of cards required is 24, and the deck will only consist of nine, ten, jack, king, queen, and ace of each suit.
The goal in Euchre is for players to strategize with their partners to capture tricks and gain points. Due to its straightforward rules, playing with family or friends new to card games is outstanding. However, don’t expect to become a skilled player immediately!
Since it’s a well-known game, you can now play Euchre online for free! Some websites provide a platform to create tournaments and challenge your friends worldwide. Or, you can download a smartphone app instead.
Go Fish
Go Fish is a game that sounds and plays like a modern card game but was invented in the 1850s. This game utilizes a standard card deck, lasting only five to 15 minutes per round. It’s so easy it was initially thought to be made for kids to enjoy. In addition, up to ten players can test their luck in this game.
The goal of Go Fish is for players to ask each other for cards they need to complete a set of four cards of the same rank. If the asked player has that card, they must give it up. And if not – then such a player will tell you, “Go Fish,” and draw one card from the deck.
Easy and uncomplicated, right? If you have what it takes, play Go Fish on your mobile device or look for a browser-based platform to avoid spending some of your phone’s memory.
Which of the Modern & Classic Card Games Stood Out?
Choosing can be daunting, with hundreds of card games designed and developed for huge families and groups of friends to enjoy. However, we have curated this list for those who want a classic card game and a modern one to add to their rotation. Whether you like timeless or newer titles, this list has it all!