How to Play BS Card Game with 3 Players: A Guide to Bluffing and Strategy

How to Play BS Card Game with 3 Players: A Guide to Bluffing and Strategy

The BS card game, also known as “Bullshit” or “Cheat,” is a classic bluffing game that thrives on deception, strategy, and a bit of luck. While it can be played with a larger group, playing with just three players creates a unique dynamic that requires careful planning and quick thinking. In this guide, we’ll explore how to play the BS card game with three players, along with some tips to master the art of bluffing. Plus, we’ll throw in a quirky discussion about how the game might evolve if played in zero gravity—because why not?

How to Play BS Card Game with 3 Players

Objective

The goal of the BS card game is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards. Players take turns placing cards face-down in the center, declaring the rank of the cards they are playing (e.g., “three 7s”). However, players can lie about the cards they are playing, and others can call “BS” if they suspect a bluff. If the accusation is correct, the liar picks up the entire discard pile. If the accusation is wrong, the accuser picks up the pile.

Setup

  1. Deal the Cards: Use a standard 52-card deck. Shuffle the deck and deal all the cards evenly among the three players. Some players may have one more card than others, but this won’t affect gameplay.
  2. Determine the First Player: The player with the Ace of Spades (or any agreed-upon card) goes first. If no one has it, the youngest player starts.

Gameplay

  1. Starting the Game: The first player places one or more cards face-down in the center and declares their rank (e.g., “one 5”). The rank must follow the sequence: Ace, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, and then back to Ace.
  2. Bluffing: Players can lie about the cards they are playing. For example, a player might say “two 8s” while actually playing a 3 and a Queen.
  3. Calling BS: If a player suspects a bluff, they can call “BS” immediately after the cards are placed. The accused player must reveal the cards they played. If they were lying, they pick up the entire discard pile. If they were telling the truth, the accuser picks up the pile.
  4. Continuing the Game: The next player must play cards of the next rank in the sequence. For example, if the previous player declared “two 8s,” the next player must declare “9s.”
  5. Winning the Game: The first player to get rid of all their cards wins the game.

Tips for Playing with 3 Players

  1. Observe Patterns: With only three players, it’s easier to notice patterns in your opponents’ behavior. Pay attention to how often they call “BS” or how they react when accused.
  2. Bluff Strategically: In a small group, bluffing too often can make you an easy target. Use bluffs sparingly and at key moments to throw off your opponents.
  3. Control the Discard Pile: If you’re close to winning, try to avoid picking up the discard pile. This might mean being more cautious about calling “BS” or bluffing less frequently.
  4. Use Psychology: With fewer players, psychological tactics become more effective. For example, you might pretend to hesitate before calling “BS” to make your opponents doubt their own bluffs.

What If BS Were Played in Zero Gravity?

Imagine playing BS in zero gravity—cards floating around, players trying to grab them mid-air, and the discard pile forming a chaotic cloud in the center. Would calling “BS” be harder when you can’t see the cards clearly? Would players develop new strategies, like using air currents to hide their bluffs? While this scenario is purely hypothetical, it’s fun to think about how the game might evolve in such an environment.

FAQs

  1. Can you play BS with more than three players?
    Yes, BS can be played with up to 10 players, though the game becomes more chaotic with larger groups.

  2. What happens if two players call “BS” at the same time?
    The first player to call “BS” gets priority. If it’s unclear who called first, the players can decide by rock-paper-scissors or another method.

  3. Is there a penalty for calling “BS” incorrectly?
    Yes, the player who incorrectly calls “BS” must pick up the entire discard pile.

  4. Can you play BS with a custom deck?
    Absolutely! You can use themed decks or even add wild cards to make the game more interesting.

  5. What’s the best way to practice bluffing?
    Play the game often and observe how others bluff. Over time, you’ll develop a sense of when and how to bluff effectively.

Whether you’re playing in a cozy living room or imagining a zero-gravity version, the BS card game is a timeless way to test your bluffing skills and have fun with friends. So grab a deck, gather two other players, and let the games begin!