Waterfall is a popular drinking card game known for its fast-paced, social nature. While the basic rules are simple, variations exist, so it's crucial to establish the specific rules before you begin playing. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the standard rules and addresses common questions.
How to Play Waterfall: The Basic Rules
The game requires a standard 52-card deck and at least two players. The goal isn't to "win" in the traditional sense, but rather to strategically manage your drinks and have fun with friends.
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Dealing the Cards: Shuffle the deck thoroughly and deal each player an equal number of cards. If there are leftover cards, set them aside – they won't be used in this round.
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The Deal: Players keep their cards hidden. Simultaneously, each player reveals their top card.
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The Waterfall: The player who reveals the lowest card starts drinking. However, everyone continues drinking until the player with the highest card stops. This simultaneous drinking is the "waterfall."
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Card Values: The ranking of cards is standard: 2 is the lowest, Ace is the highest. Suits are irrelevant in most versions of Waterfall.
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Special Cards: Certain cards trigger specific actions:
- 2 (Two): You choose someone to drink.
- 3 (Three): Everyone drinks three sips (or a chosen number).
- 4 (Four): The player with the 4 chooses someone to drink. Often, this is a “ladies drink,” “gentlemen drink,” or something similar based on the player's preferences.
- 5 (Five): This card is commonly referred to as "Five is alive!" Everyone except the player with the 5 drinks.
- 7 (Seven): Say "Heaven." Everyone raises their drink, with the last one to do so taking a sip. Variations include drinking seven sips.
- 8 (Eight): Mate. Choose a drinking buddy. Both players drink together throughout a predetermined round or until the end of the entire round of card turns.
- Jack (J): This card can be used to introduce "Never Have I Ever," with players sharing experiences. Those who have done the specified thing drink.
- Queen (Q): Similar to the Jack, this card can be used for a drinking game like "Question Master," where the Queen holder asks questions, and those answering "yes" drink.
- King (K): The King can be used to start a "King's Cup" (a separate game played alongside Waterfall).
- Ace (A): Typically, the player with the Ace can make any rule they like. This could be a personalized drinking rule, a forfeit, etc. However, this should be reasonably appropriate and fair.
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Emptying your Hand: Once a player runs out of cards, they're out of that round. The game continues until only one player is left with cards (though the game is often played for enjoyment and not to declare a "winner"). Often a new round starts after the first one finishes.
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Variations: Numerous variations exist; some add rules for 6, 9, and 10. It's essential to agree on these variations before starting the game. Some groups also add additional card rules or drinking penalties depending on preference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if two or more players have the same highest card?
In this case, all players who tied for the highest card stop drinking at the same time. Everyone else continues drinking until then.
Can you make up your own rules for special cards?
Generally, yes. However, it's essential to agree on all house rules before beginning to avoid disputes. The house rules should be equally fair to all players.
What if someone doesn't want to drink alcohol?
Waterfall can be adapted for non-alcoholic beverages. The rules remain the same; substitute drinks according to preferences.
How many players can play Waterfall?
Waterfall can be played with two or more players. The more people involved, the more chaotic (and fun) the game can be.
What is the goal of the game?
The main goal of Waterfall is to have fun with friends in a social setting. There's no real "winning" player, as it's more about enjoying the social interaction and the shared experience.
Remember to drink responsibly and always be mindful of your limits and the limits of others. Enjoy the game!
