Bullshit, also known as I Doubt It, is a fast-paced card game perfect for all ages and skill levels. Its simple rules and engaging gameplay make it a party favorite. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to play and win at Bullshit.
What You'll Need to Play Bullshit
Before you dive into the thrilling world of strategic card-slinging, you'll need:
- A standard deck of 52 playing cards: No need for special editions or fancy designs; a regular deck will do just fine.
- 2 or more players: The more players, the more chaotic (and fun!) the game becomes.
- A flat surface: A table is ideal, but any flat surface will suffice.
How to Play Bullshit: A Step-by-Step Guide
The objective of Bullshit is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards. Here's how it works:
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Dealing the Cards: Shuffle the deck thoroughly and deal out all the cards evenly among the players. Players do not look at their hands initially.
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The First Player: One player starts by placing a card face down in the center of the playing area. They then announce the rank of the card. For example: "I'm playing a three". Important: They do not have to actually play a three. This is where the "bullshit" element comes in!
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Subsequent Players: Each subsequent player must add one or more cards to the pile, following the same pattern. If you have more than one card of the same rank to play, you can put them down together. They must either play cards of the same rank as announced, or call "Bullshit!"
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Calling "Bullshit!": This is where the strategy and risk come into play. If a player suspects that the previous player is lying (i.e., they didn't actually play the card rank they claimed), they can call "Bullshit!".
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Revealing the Cards: When someone calls "Bullshit!", the cards are turned face up. If the called player was truthful, the accuser must pick up the entire pile of cards. If the called player was lying, the liar takes the whole pile.
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Winning the Game: The first player to get rid of all their cards wins the game!
Tips and Tricks to Master Bullshit
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Bluffing is Key: Mastering the art of deception is crucial to winning Bullshit. Learn to read your opponents and gauge their likelihood of calling "Bullshit!". A believable bluff can often get you out of trouble.
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Card Observation: Pay attention to the cards played by other players. This will give you clues about the cards they are likely holding.
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Strategic Discarding: Try to get rid of high-value cards early, as they can lead to larger piles if someone calls "Bullshit!" and you are caught lying.
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Know When to Call "Bullshit!": Don't be too quick to call, but don't be afraid to call when you have a strong suspicion. A well-timed "Bullshit!" can swing the game in your favour.
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Play it Loose and Have Fun: Bullshit is ultimately a game of fun and friendly competition. Don't take it too seriously; embrace the chaos and enjoy the experience!
Variations of Bullshit
While the basic rules remain the same, some variations exist, adding a unique twist to the game. For example:
- Number of Cards Played: Some variations allow players to play multiple cards of the same rank at once, even going up to the whole hand if able.
- Penalty for Wrong Accusations: Some rule variations specify higher penalties for those falsely calling "Bullshit."
Experiment with these variations to find what suits your group's preference.
By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy a game of Bullshit and hopefully, become a master bluffer. Good luck, and have fun!
