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 intensifies the gameplay. This guide will walk you through the rules, strategies, and nuances of playing BS with three players, ensuring you’re ready to outwit your opponents.


Objective of the Game

The goal of BS is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards. Players take turns placing cards face-down in the center, declaring their rank (e.g., “three Aces” or “two Kings”). However, the twist is that players can lie about the cards they’re playing. If another player suspects a lie, they can call “BS!” and challenge the play. If the challenge is correct, the liar must pick up the entire discard pile. If the challenge is wrong, the challenger picks up the pile.


Setup for 3 Players

  1. Deck Preparation: Use a standard 52-card deck. For a faster game, you can remove some lower-value cards, but this is optional.
  2. Dealing Cards: Shuffle the deck and deal all the cards evenly among the three players. Some players may have one extra card, which is fine.
  3. Determine the First Player: Decide who goes first. This can be done by drawing cards, with the highest or lowest card going first, or by mutual agreement.

Gameplay Rules

  1. Starting the Game: The first player places one or more cards face-down in the center and declares their rank. For example, they might say, “One Ace.”
  2. Turn Order: Play proceeds clockwise. Each player must play cards of the next rank in sequence (Aces, then 2s, then 3s, and so on, up to Kings).
  3. Bluffing: Players can lie about the cards they’re playing. For example, if it’s your turn to play 5s, you could place two 7s face-down and say, “Two 5s.”
  4. Challenging: If a player suspects a lie, they can call “BS!” before the next player takes their turn. The challenged player must reveal the cards they played. If they lied, they pick up the discard pile. If they told the truth, the challenger picks up the pile.
  5. Winning the Game: The first player to get rid of all their cards wins. The game continues until only one player remains with cards.

Strategies for 3 Players

Playing BS with three players requires a mix of boldness and caution. Here are some strategies to consider:

  1. Bluff Early, Bluff Often: In a three-player game, the stakes are higher, and the discard pile grows faster. Bluffing early can help you reduce your hand size quickly, but be prepared for challenges.
  2. Observe Patterns: Pay attention to how your opponents play. Do they tend to bluff frequently? Are they overly cautious? Use this information to predict their moves.
  3. Timing Your Challenges: Don’t challenge every play, as this can backfire. Instead, wait for moments when you’re confident the player is lying.
  4. Manage Your Hand: Try to keep a balanced hand with a variety of ranks. This makes it easier to play truthfully when needed and bluff convincingly when the opportunity arises.
  5. Psychological Warfare: Use your words and body language to sow doubt. For example, if you’re telling the truth, act suspiciously to make your opponents second-guess themselves.

Variations for 3 Players

To keep the game fresh, consider these variations:

  1. Reverse Order: After each round, reverse the turn order. This adds an extra layer of strategy.
  2. Wild Cards: Introduce wild cards that can represent any rank. This increases the potential for bluffing.
  3. Limited Challenges: Allow each player only a certain number of challenges per game. This forces players to be more strategic about when to call “BS!”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Over-Bluffing: Bluffing too often can make you predictable and increase the likelihood of being challenged.
  2. Under-Bluffing: Never bluffing makes you an easy target, as opponents will know you’re always telling the truth.
  3. Ignoring the Discard Pile: Keep an eye on the discard pile’s size. A large pile can be a significant penalty if you’re forced to pick it up.

FAQs

Q: Can I play BS with more than three players?
A: Absolutely! BS can be played with 2 or more players, though the dynamics change with the number of participants.

Q: What happens if I run out of cards to play?
A: If you can’t play the required rank, you must bluff. If you’re caught, you’ll pick up the discard pile.

Q: Is there a way to make the game shorter?
A: Yes, you can remove some cards from the deck or set a time limit for each turn.

Q: Can I challenge my own play?
A: No, challenges must come from other players.

Q: What’s the best way to practice bluffing?
A: Play regularly and observe how others bluff. Over time, you’ll develop a sense of when and how to lie convincingly.


Playing BS with three players is a thrilling experience that combines strategy, psychology, and a bit of luck. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, these tips and strategies will help you master the art of bluffing and emerge victorious. So gather your friends, shuffle the deck, and get ready to call “BS!”