How To Play Kings Corner

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Knowing how to play Kings Corner is simple and enjoyable, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced card players. Kings Corner, also known as Kings in the Corner, combines elements of solitaire and multiplayer competition.

This guide explains clearly how to play Kings Corner, ensuring you master the game quickly.

how to play kings corner

Number of players: 2 to 4

Deck: Standard deck of 52 cards (no jokers)

Rank of cards: Ace Low, 2 to 10, J, Q, K

Object of the Game

The object of Kings Corner is to be the first player to discard all your cards onto the central play piles. Players compete by strategically placing cards from their hands into the layout of cards on the table.

It helps if you’ve played Solitaire before but don’t worry if not as Kings Corner can still be learnt pretty quickly.

Success in Kings Corner relies on paying attention to opportunities as they arise. Winning Kings Corner involves both strategy and a bit of luck, making it an exciting game for family and friends.

The Deal

Use a standard 52-card deck without jokers. Shuffle the deck thoroughly. Deal seven cards face-down to each player, starting with the player to the dealer’s left and proceeding clockwise.

After dealing, place the remaining cards face-down in the center of the table to form the draw pile. Turn over the top four cards from the draw pile and place one card face-up on each side of the pile, forming a cross-shaped layout.

These four face-up cards become your starting play piles, each forming a potential corner for kings.

kings corner card game setup

The Play

The player to the dealer’s left begins the game. Play moves clockwise around the table. On your turn, you may perform several actions in sequence, as follows:

Drawing Cards

Begin your turn by drawing one card from the draw pile. Add the drawn card to your hand.

Playing Cards

Place cards from your hand onto the play piles. Cards must be played in descending numerical order, alternating colors. For example, if the top card is a black 8 (clubs or spades), you must play a red 7 (hearts or diamonds) on top. Continue playing as many cards as you can from your hand.

Moving Cards

You can move entire piles onto other piles, provided they fit the descending numerical order and alternate color rule. For instance, if you have a red 5 on one pile, you may move that entire pile onto a black 6 on another pile.

Moving piles helps open spaces for kings, providing more options to discard cards.

Placing Kings

Kings are special in Kings Corner. When you have a king, you can place it in an empty corner spot created by removing or moving entire piles. Only kings can occupy the empty corners.

kings corner gameplay

After placing a king, continue adding cards onto it, following the descending numerical and alternate color rule.

Ending Your Turn

Once you can no longer play any cards, announce your turn is complete. Play then passes to the next player on your left.

How To Win Kings Corner

A key strategy in knowing how to play Kings Corner is always focusing on creating empty corners for your kings. Use every opportunity to move piles and create spaces. Holding onto kings too long can limit your options.

Playing kings quickly maximizes opportunities for discarding additional cards.

Winning Tips

Pay attention to your opponents’ moves. Notice the cards they discard and keep track of their possible remaining cards. This can give you clues about when to hold or play specific cards.

Special Situations

If the draw pile runs out, continue playing with the cards remaining in your hands. When no further moves are possible, players compare how many cards they hold. The player holding the fewest cards wins the game.

Common Mistakes

Avoid these common mistakes when learning how to play Kings Corner:

  • Forgetting to draw a card at the start of your turn
  • Not utilizing moves that open spaces for kings
  • Holding onto cards too long instead of playing them promptly

Variations

Many variations exist for Kings Corner, allowing for new challenges and keeping the game fresh. One popular variation permits players to draw until they can play a card, speeding up gameplay. Another variation uses jokers as wildcards, allowing increased flexibility.

By following these simple instructions and strategic tips, you can quickly become skilled in how to play Kings Corner, enjoying countless rounds with family and friends.

If you want to try other simple but fun card games you must try Pass The Trash, Pitch or Old Maid.

FAQs

How Many Cards Do You Deal in Kings Corner?

Each player receives seven cards dealt face-down at the start of Kings Corner.

Can You Move Cards Between Piles in Kings Corner?

Yes, cards and entire piles can be moved onto another pile if they follow descending order and alternate colors.

What Happens When You Run Out of Cards to Draw in Kings Corner?

Players continue taking turns without drawing new cards, and the game ends when no further moves can be made.

Do You Have to Play a King Immediately in Kings Corner?

No, but placing kings in empty corners promptly provides strategic advantages to discard other cards quickly.

How Do You Win a Game of Kings Corner?

You win by being the first player to discard all your cards onto the play piles in the center.

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