Understanding the Rules of Waterfall: A Comprehensive Guide
Waterfall is a popular drinking card game known for its chaotic and often hilarious nature. While the basic rules are simple, variations exist, so it's essential to establish the specific rules before you begin playing. This guide will cover the standard rules and some common variations.
The Goal: The goal of Waterfall is to be the last player standing (or, in some variations, the first to reach a certain number of points). The game relies heavily on chance and a little bit of strategic drinking (or, for a non-alcoholic version, strategic point accumulation).
What You Need:
- A standard deck of 52 playing cards
- Players (at least 2, but more is generally more fun!)
- Drinks (optional, but it's where the game gets its name!) Or, alternatively, a system for tracking points.
Standard Rules of Waterfall:
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Dealing: The cards are dealt face down, one at a time, to each player. The remaining cards form a draw pile.
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The First Card: The first player flips over the top card of the draw pile.
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Card Values and Actions: The value of the card determines the action:
- 2: Two is "You." Only the player who drew the card drinks.
- 3: Three is "Me." Only the player to the dealer's left drinks.
- 4: Four is "Floor." Everyone drinks.
- 5: Five is "Guys." All male players drink.
- 6: Six is "Girls." All female players drink.
- 7: Seven is "Heaven." The last player to raise their hand drinks. This requires quick reflexes!
- 8: Eight is "Mate." Choose someone to drink with you.
- 9: Nine is "Rhyme." The player who drew the card says a word, and the next player must say a word that rhymes. This continues around the circle. Anyone who can't rhyme or repeats a word drinks.
- 10: Ten is "Categories." The player who drew the card names a category (e.g., fruits, animals, countries). Players take turns naming items in that category. Whoever repeats or can't think of an item drinks.
- Jack (J): Jack is "Jackpot." Everyone drinks until the player who drew the card stops them.
- Queen (Q): Queen is "Question Master." The player who drew the card can ask anyone a question. If the player doesn't answer, they drink.
- King (K): King is "Make a Rule." The player who drew the card makes a new rule for the game (e.g., everyone must drink with their left hand). This rule lasts until another King is drawn.
- Ace (A): Ace is "Waterfall." Everyone starts drinking simultaneously. No one can stop until the person to their left stops. This creates the "waterfall" effect.
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Rotation: After completing the action for a card, the turn moves to the next player.
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Game End: The game continues until everyone is too intoxicated to continue (or, if you are playing a points-based game, until a player achieves a set amount of points).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many drinks per card? There's no set number of drinks per card. It's usually up to each player's discretion, and many players prefer to use a single sip or a small amount of liquid. It's crucial to drink responsibly.
What if someone doesn't have a drink? Variations exist. Some players may opt out of that round, others might be given a penalty (like picking up a card, or taking an extra turn) or simply miss the round. It’s best to agree on a house rule before playing.
What are some variations of Waterfall? Many variations exist. Some may include specific card combinations resulting in unique actions, or modifications to existing card actions. It’s all about negotiation and having fun with it!
Is there a non-alcoholic version? Absolutely! Replace drinking with other actions – such as doing a silly dance, singing a song, or completing a small task. This allows for a fun and engaging experience for all players, regardless of alcohol preference.
Can I change the rules? Waterfall is a highly adaptable game! Feel free to adjust the rules and actions to suit your group’s preferences. Creativity is encouraged!
Remember to always drink responsibly and prioritize safety. Have fun playing Waterfall!
