Some games bring laughs and rivalry to the table. The President card game is one of them. People play it with friends, during parties, or just to pass time. It mixes strategy with simple fun. Many know it as Asshole, a name that sticks because of its humor and roleplay nature.
This game moves fast and keeps players alert. Each round can change your rank. One round you’re the President. The next, you’re at the bottom. The thrill lies in how quickly things shift. It makes players want to come back again and again.
The game works well in groups. Most people play it with at least four players. It does not need special cards or apps. Just a regular deck, a few people, and some house rules get the game going. That’s part of what makes it easy to learn but hard to master.
In this guide, you will learn how to play the game step by step. Whether you call it President, Scum, or Asshole, the rules remain close. This article covers setup, gameplay, ranks, and tips. You will know what to do and how to win.
What You Need to Start
Use one regular 52-card deck to begin the game. Some groups add jokers or use two decks if many people play. Most versions do not use jokers, so we will focus on the basic style.
You need at least four players. The game works best with five to seven players. If you play with more than eight, the rounds may feel slow.
Pick someone to deal. That person shuffles the deck and gives out the cards one by one. Each player should end up with an even number of cards. If a few cards remain, just set them aside face-down.
Game Objective
The main goal is to get rid of all your cards before others do. The first person to do this becomes the President in the next round. The last person left holding cards becomes the Asshole.
The rank you earn at the end of each round affects how you start the next. The President gains power. The Asshole starts at a disadvantage. The game repeats with new roles every round.
Tile Game Ink Style – A Simple Guide for New Players
How the Game Works
The game begins with the player who holds the three of clubs. That card starts the first round in most versions. The person plays it face-up in the center. Then, play moves clockwise.
Players take turns laying down cards that match or beat the last one played. You can also play a set of two or more of the same rank. For example, if someone plays one five, you must play a five or higher. If someone plays two eights, you must play two of the same rank that are eights or higher.
If you can’t play, you pass. Once all players pass, the pile clears. The last person to place cards starts the next round.
You keep playing until one person runs out of cards. That person becomes the President. Play goes on until just one player still holds cards. That person becomes the Asshole.
Card Ranks and Rules
The cards rank low to high as follows:
3 → 4 → 5 → 6 → 7 → 8 → 9 → 10 → J → Q → K → A → 2
Twos are the highest cards in most versions. They can beat anything but are not part of sequences.
Some people allow bombs. A bomb is four cards of the same rank. It clears the pile no matter what. Not every group uses this rule, so agree before you play.
You cannot split pairs or sets once played. If you play two eights, you cannot later play one of them alone. You must hold cards carefully to plan strong sets.
Ranks and Roles
After each round, players earn a title based on how fast they finish:
- President – First to run out of cards
- Vice President – Second
- Neutral Players – Middle finishers (may have no title)
- Vice Asshole – Second to last
- Asshole – Last to finish
These titles carry weight. In the next round:
- The Asshole must give their best two cards to the President.
- The President returns any two cards of their choice to the Asshole.
- Vice Asshole gives one best card to Vice President. The Vice President returns one of their choice.
The Asshole may also deal and clean up the cards. Some versions give the President the right to make silly rules or skip players.
Special House Rules
Many groups add their own fun rules. Some allow the President to ask anyone to drink in party settings. Others let the Asshole wear a silly hat. Some skip neutral roles if only a few people play.
You can also change how the first round begins. Instead of using the three of clubs, you may let the Asshole go first, or let the winner of the last round lead.
No rule is fixed unless the group agrees. That’s part of the fun. The base rules stay the same, but your group can shape the game to fit your style.
Tips to Win the Game
- Hold your power cards – Save twos and aces for later turns when needed most.
- Play low cards early – This helps you avoid getting stuck with weak cards at the end.
- Watch the table – Try to track what others play and what they might hold.
- Use sets wisely – Two or three of a kind can change the round if played smart.
- Know your rank – If you’re President, use your power well. If you’re the Asshole, plan to climb up next round.
Why People Love This Game
The President card game brings energy to any group. It gives people a chance to laugh, compete, and switch roles often. The humor behind the titles adds fun without complex scoring or hard rules.
It plays well at home, during breaks, or at casual gatherings. People enjoy the shift in power each round. One moment you’re on top. The next, you’re fighting your way back.
Its low setup time and easy rules make it great for new players. Even those who lose keep coming back. It creates stories and memories, not just wins and losses.
Conclusion
The President card game-also called Asshole in many circles-offers more than fun. It mixes luck, skill, and humor in a way that few card games do. Once players learn the flow, they want to keep going. The game rewards smart plays but still leaves room for laughs.
You do not need deep strategies or long rules. Just gather your friends, grab a deck, and set the mood. Each round brings new twists. With the right group, this game never gets old.
Now that you know how to play, shuffle the deck and take your shot at becoming the President. Or at least try not to end up as the Asshole.
Want to level up your game even more? Check out our guide on Become a Gamer Challenger: The Skill-Based Guide to Winning More.
Common Questions (FAQs)
What is the President card game also called?
Many people call it Asshole. Some groups use names like Scum, Bum, or Peasant. The rules stay mostly the same.
How many people can play the game?
You need at least four players. It works best with five to seven. You can add more, but the game slows down.
What card starts the game?
Most players start with the three of clubs. Some groups use other rules. Always agree before you begin.
What does the Asshole have to do?
The Asshole gives their best two cards to the President. They often shuffle, deal, or clear cards too.
This article explains a classic card game often known by an informal name. It is meant for educational and entertainment use only. Reader discretion is advised. Please play responsibly and follow local laws and social norms.
