Golf card game rules are simple, it’s just that the table looks busy. So, don’t worry about losing your cool. Here’s what you need to know to win big every time.
What are the basic golf card game rules?
To play the game of Golf with cards, you must have a full deck of cards. And by full, we mean you need the Jokers too. Meanwhile, the game calls for between two and four players, so call over some of your friends for some innocent gambling. Tell them that the basic rules are super easy:
DEALING
Give each player a total of six cards to begin. Then, flip over the top card of the remaining deck and lay it in the middle of the table. Also, don’t look at your cards.
SETUP
Each player’s cards are set up in two rows of three. Still, do NOT flip over or look at any of your cards because it means you forfeit the game.
OBJECTIVE
Like in regular golf, the object of this game is to end with the lowest possible score. So, here’s a card value breakdown to help you out:
- Ace = 1 point
- Jack – Queen = 10 points
- Numbers = face value
- King = 0 points
- Joker = 2 points
Keep in mind that matching cards in the same column cancel each other out. That means zero points, my friends. It’s also what everyone hopes for in the game.
GAMEPLAY
Flip the two random cards and then decide if you want to keep them or trade one for something in the middle of the table. Remember, you can either pick from the discard pile or choose one of the face-down cards next to it.
Also, you only get to flip two cards on your first turn. After that, you only flip one. And when all your cards are flipped over, your playtime is done. Meanwhile, any leftover cards that have not been flipped over count negatively against your score.
DID YOU KNOW: You can add in more players by using a second deck of cards and following the same rules.
3 golf card game rules to help you win every round
Golf card game rules can vary widely depending on the people playing it. In fact, some cultures play the game without any Jokers at all. You can make your own adjustments, but you’ll never win without these 3 simple tips:
- Play like you’ve got 9 rounds to go…because you do. That means you can take a few hits but not that many.
- Try to line up the cards in your columns. After all, it’s how you win.
- Have an outside shuffle the cards after the pile is used. That way, there’s no questions about cheating or setting the deck.
How to teach golf card game rules to newbies
Have a beginner try one round by themselves. Ask them to practice dealing and swapping cards. Then, slowly add in other players so they can learn at their own pace.
The takeaway
Golf card game rules are simple enough for the whole family but challenging enough for friendly competition. But practice makes perfect, so dig out your decks right away.