Kings Cup Rules: How to Play the Card Game Step by Step
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King's Cup Rules

  • May 5, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Mar 3


Kings Cup is a drinking card game where players draw cards and follow the rules assigned to each card. Each card has a specific meaning, like Waterfall or Question Master, and the game ends when the final King is drawn.


King's Cup Setup

  • 4-10 Players

  • Standard deck of cards

  • One large cup in the centre

  • Sit in a circle


King's Cup Rules Chart


Diagram showing Kings Cup rules with each card meaning arranged in a circle around a central cup
The complete Kings Cup rules chart showing what each card means during the game.

King's Cup Card Meanings


  • Ace: Waterfall

    Start drinking at the same time as the person to your left. Don't stop until they do.


  • 2: You

    Choose someone that has to drink.


  • 3: Me

    You drink.


  • 4: Floor

    The last person to touch the floor drinks.


  • 5: Guys

    Guys drink.


  • 6: Chicks

    Girls drink.


  • 7: Heaven

    Raise your hand to heaven. The last person to do so drinks.


  • 8: Mate

    Choose someone to be your mate. Any time you drink, they drink.


  • 9: Rhyme

    Say a word, the person to your right says a word that rhymes, and so on. The first person to fail drinks.


  • 10: Categories

    Choose a category, anything! Go around the circle, each person names something in that category. The first person to fail drinks.


  • Jack : Never Have I Ever

    Play never have I ever. One full round of the circle.


  • Queen: Question Master

    You are the question master. Whenever you ask a question, other players must also respond with a question. If they answer your question, they must drink. When another Queen is drawn, the question master switches.


  • King: King's Cup

    When the first three Kings are drawn, pour some of your drink into the cup. Make a rule that all players must follow for the rest of the game. Whoever draws the final King must drink the entire King's Cup.


Kings Cup is one of the most popular drinking games out there, perfect for parties and social gatherings. For hosting game night or celebrating a special occasion, King's Cup adds a lot of fun to any event. But before you dive in, it's important to know the rules to make sure everyone has a great time (and to keep the arguments to a minimum).


If you’re looking to elevate your Kings Cup experience, check out our premium Kings Cup set. It comes with everything you need to play the game, from high-quality cups to durable cards that will last through multiple rounds of fun. Plus, it’s the perfect addition to any party or social gathering.



King's cup card game.
King's Cup - Premium Edition






Why You Need a Kings Cup Set

Now, you can either look up how to play King's Cup every time you feel like playing, OR you can do yourself a favour and grab our Kings Cup set. Simple to follow cards in a classic Pretzel pink design ensures every game night is a success. Don't waste time with a regular deck of cards, ours are specially made with the instructions, so you'll never have to look up the rules for King's Cup again.




🥤 King's Cup FAQ

What is King's Cup?

King's Cup is a classic drinking card game that's popular at parties. Players take turns drawing cards, each with a unique rule, and follow the instructions. The goal? Have fun, stay sharp, and avoid drawing the final King - because that player drinks the infamous King's Cup.

How many people can play King's Cup?

King's Cup works best with 4 to 10 players, but you can technically play with 3 or more. The more people you have, the more chaotic (and entertaining) the game becomes.

How do you play King's Cup?

Each card in the deck represents a different action. For example, a 2 is “You” (choose someone to drink), a 7 is “Heaven”(hands in the air!), and a King lets you make a rule. The game ends when all cards are drawn and the last King is revealed.

What happens when you draw the last King?

The person who draws the fourth and final King must drink whatever is in the Kings Cup - a mix of everyone’s drinks poured in throughout the game. It’s... not always pleasant. So, good luck!

Where can I buy a King's Cup set?

Right here! We’ve created a premium Kings Cup set with custom cards. Click here to shop the set now.


Pretzel Australia does not condone binge drinking, underage drinking, or antisocial behaviour. Please enjoy responsibly.




 
 
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