Sevens - Drinking Game Rules & How to Play

Sevens is a drinking game in the Card Games category for 3-8 players that takes about 15-30 min with a easy difficulty level.

Build sequences from 7s in each suit

Equipment Needed

Setup

Shuffle a standard deck of cards thoroughly and deal the entire deck evenly among all players. If the number of players doesn't divide the cards perfectly, some players will have one extra card. Players should keep their hands hidden. Place drinks within easy reach, as penalties require sipping or chugging on the spot. The game starts by laying any 7 in the center of the table to begin building the sequences.

How to Play Sevens

  1. Set up the game according to basic rules
  2. Players take turns or play simultaneously
  3. Penalties result in drinking
  4. Success means assigning drinks
  5. Continue until winner emerges
  6. Loser faces final penalty
  7. Winner earns bragging rights
  8. Adjust rules as needed for your group

Tips & Strategies

Play your 7s as early as possible, since they unlock the sequence in that suit and give you more options later. Watch the suits your opponents seem to be stuck on; if you can avoid playing a card that helps their sequence, you'll keep the pressure on them. If you can't play, drink fast and keep the game moving,stalling only gives others time to strategize. Assign drinks strategically when you successfully play a card; target players who seem like they have fewer moves left.

Variations

Waterfall Sevens: Every time a 7 is played, all players must drink in a waterfall style, starting with the player who placed the 7.. Reverse Sevens: The direction of play reverses every time someone plays a card in the same suit as the last card played.. Silent Sevens: No speaking is allowed during the game; anyone who talks takes a penalty drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if no one can play a card?
If no one can play, all players must take a drink, and the person who caused the stalemate has to drink twice.
Can I assign drinks to myself if I play successfully?
Yes, though it's rare. Self-assigned drinks can be a fun strategy to cause misdirection or if you're just feeling bold.
What counts as a penalty in Sevens?
Penalties occur when you can't play a legal card on your turn. You must take one drink for each card left in your hand at the end of the game.
Can we invent new rules during the game?
Yes, but everyone must agree to the new rule before it's enforced. For example, you could add rules like 'playing a King skips the next player's turn' or 'Jacks mean everyone drinks'.

Players: 3-8 | Duration: 15-30 min | Difficulty: easy

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