Waterfall is a popular drinking card game known for its chaotic and social nature. While the basic rules are simple, variations exist, so it's crucial to agree on the rules before starting. This guide outlines the standard rules and addresses common questions.
What You'll Need:
- A standard deck of 52 playing cards
- At least two players (more is better!)
- Drinks of your choice (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
Basic Gameplay:
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Dealing the Cards: Shuffle the deck thoroughly and deal all the cards face down to each player. No one looks at their cards yet.
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The First Card: The player to the dealer's left starts by placing a card face up in the center. This card dictates the action for the round.
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Card Values and Actions:
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2: Two is "Two is you." The player who placed the two chooses someone to drink.
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3: Three is "Three is me." The player who played the three drinks.
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4: Four is "Four is floor." Everyone drinks.
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5: Five is "Five is guys." All the guys (males) drink.
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6: Six is "Six is chicks." All the girls (females) drink.
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7: Seven is "Seven is heaven." The last person to raise their hand to the sky drinks.
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8: Eight is "Eight is mate." The player who played the eight chooses someone to drink with them.
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9: Nine is "Rhyme." The player who placed the nine says a word, and the next person must say a word that rhymes. This continues around the circle. Whoever fails to rhyme drinks.
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10: Ten is "Categories." The player who played the ten names a category (e.g., animals, countries, colors). Each player then names something in that category. Whoever repeats or can't think of something drinks.
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Jack (J): Jack is "Jack is Never Have I Ever." Each player takes turns saying something they've never done. Anyone who has done it drinks.
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Queen (Q): Queen is "Queen's Orders." The player who played the queen gives one order to another player (e.g., "Drink," "Sing a song," "Do five push-ups").
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King (K): King is "King's Cup." Each King card is added to a "King's Cup." The person who places the fourth King drinks the contents of the King's Cup.
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Ace (A): Ace is "Waterfall." Everyone starts drinking at the same time and no one can stop until the person to their left stops. The chain reaction creates a waterfall of drinking. This is the game's namesake and often the most intense part.
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Continuing the Game: The next player places a card, and the action is determined based on its value. Play continues in this way until all cards are played.
Variations and House Rules:
Many variations exist, and it's common for groups to add or modify rules to enhance the game. Some examples include:
- Penalty Cards: Designating certain cards as "penalty cards" resulting in additional drinks or other penalties.
- Specific Card Combinations: Introducing rules for specific card combinations (e.g., two cards of the same value in a row).
- Custom Actions: Creating personalized actions for different cards, adding a personal touch.
- Skip a Turn: Incorporating the ability to skip a turn, or give it to someone else
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if I run out of cards?
Once you run out of cards, you are out of the game. The game continues until only one player remains with cards.
Can we change the rules?
Absolutely! Waterfall is all about having fun, so feel free to adjust the rules to suit your group's preferences. Just make sure everyone agrees on the rules before you start.
What if someone refuses to drink?
There's no official penalty for refusing to drink, but it can affect the social dynamics of the game. The best approach is to encourage participation, but ultimately, it's up to the individual.
Is there a way to win the game of Waterfall?
While there's no formal "winner," the last player with cards in their hand could be considered the winner. However, the main objective of Waterfall is usually to have fun and enjoy the social interaction, not necessarily to "win."
Remember to always drink responsibly and never pressure anyone to drink more than they're comfortable with. Have fun and play safe!
