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Official "Piles" Card Game Rules
Piles is a fun and fast-paced card game that involves players quickly placing cards into piles based on certain criteria. Here are the rules to play Piles:
Objective
The objective of Piles is to be the first player to get rid of all the cards in your hand by placing them onto the designated piles in the center of the table.
Setup
1. Choose a dealer who shuffles the deck and deals out cards to each player. The number of cards dealt to each player depends on the number of players:
For 2-3 players: Deal 7 cards each.
For 4 or more players: Deal 5 cards each.
2. The remaining cards are placed face down in the center to form the draw pile. The top card of the draw pile is flipped face up next to it to start the discard pile.
Gameplay
The player to the left of the dealer goes first, and play proceeds clockwise around the table.
On your turn, you must play a card from your hand onto one of the piles in the center of the table according to the following rules:
If the top card of the discard pile is a number card, you can play a card of the same number (regardless of suit) on top of it.
If the top card of the discard pile is an Ace, you can play any card of any suit on top of it.
If you cannot play a card from your hand, you must draw a card from the draw pile. If the drawn card can be played, you may play it immediately; otherwise, it is added to your hand.
If you play a card successfully, the next player takes their turn.
If you play a card that matches the previous card played on a pile, the direction of play reverses (e.g., from clockwise to counterclockwise, or vice versa).
Winning the Game
The game continues until one player runs out of cards in their hand. That player is declared the winner.
Notes/Variations
Special Action Cards: You can introduce special action cards (e.g., Skip, Reverse, Draw 2) to add variety and complexity to the game. These cards can have unique effects on gameplay when played onto the piles.
House Rules: Players can agree on additional rules or variations to customize the game to their preferences.
Piles is a simple yet engaging card game that is easy to learn and suitable for players of all ages. Enjoy the fast-paced action and strategic decision-making as you race to empty your hand and claim victory!
