Chase the Ace Card Game | Discover How to Play

Who doesn’t love a great card game? There is nothing quite like gathering around the table with friends and family for healthy competition. But let’s add some Va Va Voom, shall we? I’m talking about Chase the Ace Card Game, a simple yet thrilling family card game that can keep everyone on the edge of their seats!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost.
All opinions remain my own.

What is Chase the Ace?

Origin and Popularity

Chase the Ace has roots that go way back, and it’s had a good few different names over the years. It’s trendy in the UK, where pub-goers often play a game or two. But its allure isn’t limited by geography—it’s played worldwide.

The object of the Game

So what’s the big deal?
Well, the object is straightforward: don’t end up with the lowest card. Yet, the fun lies in the suspense and strategy involved.

a deck of Adore Charlotte Playing Cards, for the game - Chase the Ace

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before you dive in, let’s run through what you’ll need.

The Deck of Cards

Grab a standard 52-card deck. You won’t need any jokers for this one.

Tokens or Chips

Each player needs some tokens. You can use anything from poker chips, buttons or even sweets.

Number of Players

Most chase the ace rules UK suggest five players, but you can adjust according to your crew.

Setting Up Your Chase the Ace Game

Designating the Dealer

Pick a dealer any way you like—maybe the youngest or the one who can do the best card trick.

Distributing Cards and Tokens

Everyone gets one card and a set number of tokens—usually three each. Please keep your card close to your chest; it’s a secret!

Join the Fun: Who Goes First?

The person to the dealer’s left kicks things off, and the play moves clockwise.

Mixed family sitting around the table playing chase the ace card game

Rules of Engagement: How to Play Chase the Ace

Basic Game Mechanics

The Game starts with the first player deciding whether to keep their card or swap it with the next player. It’s as simple as pie yet as nerve-wracking as walking a tightrope.

Swapping Cards

When your turn comes, you can either keep your card or swap it with the player on your right. But beware: they can refuse to trade if they hold an Ace.

How to Use Tokens

If you end up with the lowest card at the end of the round, you lose a token. Lose all your tokens, and you’re out, mate!

Special Situations: Ties and Other Anomalies

If there’s a tie for the lowest card, everyone involved has to fork over a token. Now, that can get hairy!

Scoring and Winning Strategies

Keeping Score: Tokens and Points

Keep track of your tokens, guys. When someone loses all of theirs, the player with the most tokens left wins.

How to Win

It’s not all about luck; some strategy can come into play. For instance, if you’re holding a low card, you’re more inclined to swap, aren’t you?

Cards on a luxury dining table, playing chase the ace card games with Adore Charlotte cards, with popcorn and sweet treats

Variations and Adaptations

Regional Rules

There are some chase the ace pub rules specific to the UK, such as the player to the dealer’s right going first instead of the left.

Chase the Ace for Kids

Even the kiddos can get in on the action. Just simplify the Chase the Ace rules card game for younger participants.

Digital Versions

Need help gathering around the table? No problem! Digital versions are available to play the Chase the Ace game online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about The Card Games

Absolutely! You can play Chase the Ace with 2 players, but it’s a bit less chaotic.

It sure is, Chase the Ace drinking game versions are all the rage for adult gatherings.

Chase the Ace is known by several other names, including “Cuckoo,” “Screw Your Neighbour,” and “Ranter-Go-Round.” The game’s name can vary depending on the region and local traditions.

The term “Chase the Ace” refers to the gameplay where players aim to avoid having the lowest-valued card at the end of each round. The ‘Ace’ part can be misleading, as Aces are high-value cards in this game. The real ‘chase’ involves dodging the lower-valued cards like 2s or 3s by keeping or swapping cards with other players.

Before you go

In the grand scheme of UK card games, Chase the Ace Card Game stands out as a winner. It’s one of those easy card games that beckons you to play round after round. And with its versatility, it’s a perfect fit for a cosy family game night or an electrifying party with friends.

So what are you waiting for? Let the games begin!

Quick & Easy Tips: Master Chase the Ace Card Game