How To Play Guts Card Game

Guts is a classic board game that has been around since the 1950s. It’s played with a deck of cards and involves players taking turns rolling dice and making decisions based on their rolls. The goal is to be the last player standing or to accumulate the most points at the end of the game. Let’s explore how to play this thrilling card game.

Step 1: Set Up the Game

Before you start playing, make sure all necessary items are ready:

• A standard deck of playing cards (4 suits, 13 ranks each)
• Dice for each player
• A score sheet for keeping track of points
• Tokens or markers for each player

Place the deck face down in the center of the table. Each player takes one token or marker and places it in their designated starting position.

Step 2: Deal the Cards

Each player receives seven cards from the deck. Shuffle them thoroughly before dealing out the remaining cards into two piles, one for each player. Place these cards next to your tokens.

Step 3: Roll the Dice

Players take turns rolling the dice. Each die roll determines which action they can perform. Here’s what each number represents:

• 1: Move forward one space.
• 2: Move forward two spaces.
• 3: Move forward three spaces.
• 4: Take another turn.
• 5: Move backward one space.
• 6: Move backward two spaces.
• 7: Take another turn.
• 8: Take another turn.
• 9: Take another turn.
• 10: Take another turn.
• 11: Take another turn.
• 12: Take another turn.
• 13: End the game immediately.

Step 4: Make Decisions Based on Your Rolls

After rolling the dice, consider the following options:

• Move Forward: If you move forward, use the card you have in hand to determine where you want to go. For example, if you rolled a 4 and have the “Jump” card, you could jump ahead to a higher-numbered space.
• Take Another Turn: If you don’t want to move, simply choose not to move and continue your turn as normal.
• End the Game: If you roll a 13, end the game immediately. This means no more moves until the next round.

Step 5: Continue Playing

The game continues in rounds, with each player rolling the dice and making decisions based on their results. Points are awarded based on where you land on the board. More points are earned closer to the finish line.

Step 6: Winning the Game

The first player to reach the designated winning space (usually marked by a star) wins the game. Alternatively, the player who accumulates the highest total points when the game ends wins.

Tips for Success

• Card Strategy: Use your cards wisely to gain advantage over other players. Consider whether moving forward might help you avoid penalties or provide an early lead.
• Avoid Penalties: Be mindful of penalties like going back spaces or ending the game prematurely. Plan your moves carefully to avoid these pitfalls.
• Teamwork: Sometimes, forming alliances with other players can give you an edge. Share information and resources to maximize your chances of victory.

Conclusion

Playing Guts requires patience, strategy, and luck. With practice, you’ll become adept at navigating through the twists and turns of the game. Enjoy the thrill of rolling the dice and making strategic choices!