- Players
- 3–8
- Time
- 15 min
- You need
- 1 deck; 2 decks for 9+
- To win
- Empty your hand first
BS rules
Setup
Deal the whole deck out as evenly as possible. Three to eight players; add a second deck for more.
Playing
- The first player puts one to four cards face down in the middle and says "one ace" or "three aces".
- The next player must play the next rank, twos, and so on up to kings, then back to aces.
- You must play at least one card on your turn, even if you have none of the rank. That's where the bluffing comes in.
Calling BS
After anyone plays, any other player can call "BS!" Turn the cards just played face up. If the player lied, they pick up the whole pile. If they told the truth, the player who called picks it up. Play then continues with the next rank.
Winning
The first player to get rid of all their cards wins, but only if their last play survives a challenge.
Tips
- Tell the truth when you can, so your bluffs are believed later.
- Count what you hold: if you have three 7s and someone claims three 7s, call it.
- A big pile is a big risk for whoever calls wrong. Late in the game, think twice before shouting.
More group games: Spoons, Old Maid and Crazy Eights.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play BS (the card game)?
Deal out the whole deck. Players take turns putting cards face down in the middle and saying what they are, going up in order: aces, then twos, and so on. You can lie. Anyone can call out a lie; whoever is wrong picks up the whole pile. First to get rid of every card wins.
What is the BS card game also called?
Cheat, I Doubt It, and a polite "Bluff" at family tables.
How many cards can you play at once in BS?
One to four, all claimed to be the required rank.
How many players do you need for BS?
Three or more. It's best with four to eight; with more than eight, shuffle in a second deck.
What happens if you have none of the rank you need?
You still have to play at least one card, so you have to bluff.