5 Card Games to Play When You’re Short on Time

1. Speed: Speed is a fast-paced, two-player game that will get your adrenaline pumping. The objective is to get rid of all your cards before your opponent does. Each player receives a pile of cards and attempts to discard them in ascending or descending order onto the central piles. The catch is that players can only play cards if they match the suit or value of the previous played card, leading to a race against time. Speed is highly engaging and can be played in just a few minutes, making it ideal for a quick gaming session.
2. Go Fish: Go Fish is a timeless classic that never fails to entertain, regardless of age. It can be played with two or more players and is perfect for a short break or a coffee break at the office. The game revolves around collecting sets of four cards of the same rank by asking other players if they have a specific card in their hand. The player with the most sets at the end wins the game. Go Fish is easy to learn and can be played in as little as five minutes, making it an excellent choice when time is limited.
3. Crazy Eights: Crazy Eights is a fantastic choice for those looking for a quick and enjoyable card game. Its simple rules make it suitable for players of all ages. The objective is to get rid of all your cards by playing cards of the same suit or value as the one on top of the discard pile. If you don’t have a playable card, you must draw from the deck until you find one. The game also includes special cards like skips and reverse cards to spice things up. With a typical game lasting around 10 minutes, you can easily fit a round of Crazy Eights into your busy schedule.
4. Golf: Golf is a popular solitaire card game that requires strategy and quick decision-making skills. The goal is to achieve the lowest score possible by forming sets of cards in ascending or descending order regardless of their suit. Each player starts with a layout of seven cards and attempts to replace high-value cards with lower ones from the deck. Golf can be played solo, and a game usually lasts between 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the player’s skill level. It’s a great option for a short break or to clear your mind during a hectic day.
5. Cheat: Cheat is a hilarious and suspenseful card game that guarantees plenty of laughter and excitement. The objective is to be the first to get rid of all your cards by successfully “cheating” the other players. Each player takes turns playing cards facedown while declaring their rank aloud. However, players have the opportunity to challenge each other if they suspect someone is lying. If proven guilty, the dishonest player must collect the stack of cards. Cheat is a quick game that can be played within 10 to 15 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a fun-filled break.
In conclusion, finding time to relax and have fun doesn’t always have to be a lengthy endeavor. With these five card games, you can enjoy yourself and engage in some friendly competition, even when time is limited. Whether you’re short on time during a lunch break or need a quick distraction during a busy day, these games offer entertainment in bite-sized portions. So, grab a deck of cards and start playing!