How To Play The “Asshole/President” Drinking Game

“Asshole” is a classic and popular drinking card game known for its hilarious hierarchy system and engaging rules.

It’s a great way to break the ice and inject some fun into social gatherings.

This game is a great game to play with a larger group, along with more of the best drinking card games like Give and Take, Pyramid, the Kings drinking card game and the “F The Dealer” drinking game.

Here’s a guide on how to play the President/Asshole drinking game:

Equipment Needed

1. Deck of Cards: A standard 52-card deck.
2. Drinks: Typically alcoholic beverages.

Number of Players

• 4 to 7 players: Ideal for a medium-sized group.

Objective

The aim of the game is to get rid of all your cards as quickly as possible. The first player to do so becomes the President in the next round, while the last player becomes the Asshole.

Game Setup

1. Seating Arrangement: In the first round, players can sit in any order. In subsequent rounds, players sit according to their rank from the previous round (President, Vice-President, etc.).
2. Dealing Cards: All cards are dealt evenly to each player.

Asshole/President Game Rules

1. Order of Play:
   • The player to the dealer’s left starts the game.
   • Play proceeds clockwise.
2. Gameplay:
   • The first player plays any card or set of matching cards (like a pair or three of a kind).
   • The next player must play the same number of cards with a higher value or pass.
   • If everyone passes, the last player to play a card starts a new round with any card(s).
3. Special Cards:
   • Some variants use special cards like twos as wildcards or clear cards.
4. Clearing the Pile:
   • Certain high cards (like twos or tens) can clear the pile, allowing that player to start a new round.
5. End of Round:
   • The round continues until all but one player have exhausted their cards.
   • The last player left with cards becomes the Asshole.

Hierarchy and Roles

1. President:
   • The first person to get rid of all their cards.
   • Has privileges like making rules, starting rounds, and can ask others to drink.
2. Vice-President:
   • The second person to finish.
   • Sits to the President’s left and has fewer privileges.
3. Other Players:
   • Ranked in order of finishing (Neutral, Vice-Asshole, etc.).
4. Asshole:
   • The last person with cards.
   • Must deal the next round, clear away cards, and typically has to wear an embarrassing hat or similar item.

Rules and Etiquette

1. President’s Privileges:
   • Can create special rules, like a ban on swearing or a requirement to drink under certain conditions.
   • The President can also reverse the order of play.
2. Asshole’s Duties:
   • Deals the cards and clears the pile.
   • Must give their highest cards to the President in exchange for any cards of the President’s choice.
3. Penalties:
   • Failure to adhere to rules or roles results in drinking penalties.

Variations

• Special Rules: Each President can establish unique rules for their term.
• Teams: In larger groups, players can form teams and work to get their team members into the higher ranks.
• Drinking Regulations: Adjust the drinking rules to suit the preferences and limits of the group.

Strategy Tips

1. Card Management: Be strategic about when to play your high cards.
2. Reading the Game: Pay attention to what cards have been played and what’s likely left in players’ hands.
3. Adapting to Roles: Use the power of your role (especially as President) to influence the game.

Safety and Considerations

• Drink Responsibly: Always be aware of your limits and encourage responsible drinking.
• Inclusivity: Ensure all players are comfortable with the rules, especially the drinking and hierarchical aspects. Offer non-alcoholic alternatives.
• Consent and Comfort: Make sure everyone understands the rules and agrees to them before starting.

Asshole Drinking Game Rules

“Asshole” is an entertaining card game that can turn any social gathering into a lively and memorable event. It’s not just about the cards; it’s also about social interaction, strategy, and adapting to the ever-changing hierarchy.

The key is to enjoy the game responsibly and ensure that all players are having fun in a comfortable and inclusive environment.

Whether you’re the President or the Asshole, every role offers its unique form of entertainment!

Check out some more of the best free drinking games.