How to Play Bonkers Card Game

Bonkers is a fast-paced, hilarious shedding card game for 2+ players using a standard 52-card deck (+ Jokers).

Objective

Be the first to get rid of all your cards.

Setup

1. Shuffle and deal 7 cards to each player.
2. Place the remaining deck face-down as a draw pile.
3. Player left of dealer starts by playing any card.

Gameplay

• Match rank or suit: Play a card matching the previous card's rank or suit (e.g., on a 7♥, play any 7 or any ♥).
• Must play if able: If you have a legal play, you must make it.
• Draw if stuck: If no match, draw one card. If it matches, play it immediately; otherwise, keep it and turn passes.

Wild Cards

• Jokers: Play on any card; declare a new suit.
• Aces: Play on any card; wild for suit or rank.

Winning

First player to empty their hand shouts "Bonkers!" and wins.

Common Variations

• Bonkers Rule: If unable to play, call "Bonkers!" to force others to draw two (risky).
• 7s Rule: Playing a 7 forces next player to draw two.
• Penalty cards: Certain cards make others draw or skip.

Tips

• Track played cards to anticipate matches.
• Use wild cards strategically to shed difficult cards.
• Don't fear calling "Bonkers!"—it can turn the tide.