Read this out first

Mao

A card game where learning the rules is the game. The dealer knows the rules and nobody else does. Everyone plays cards like Crazy Eights, and whenever someone breaks a rule, they get a penalty card and are told only what they did, never why. Empty your hand to win, then add a secret rule of your own.

first round is practice. stop and ask anytime.

Set up · 1 of 3

Only the dealer should read these rules. If you're not the dealer, stop reading here.

Set up · 2 of 3

Deal seven cards each. Turn one card face up to start the pile.

Set up · 3 of 3

The dealer says only this: "The only rule I can tell you is the name of the game: Mao." Then play begins. No more explaining.

How to play · 1 of 4

Play like Crazy Eights

Going left, each player plays one card matching the top card's suit or number. If you can't, draw one card.

How to play · 2 of 4

Enforce the secret rules

The dealer enforces the starting rules in the list below. Nobody else is told what they are.

How to play · 3 of 4

Hand out penalty cards

Break a rule and the dealer hands you a card from the deck and names the offense: "Penalty: talking." Never more than that.

How to play · 4 of 4

Win and add a rule

Play your last card and say "Mao" to win the hand. Then make up one new secret rule, tell nobody, and deal the next hand. You enforce your rule from then on.

How to win

Play as many hands as you like. Whoever wins the most hands wins.