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 adds a unique dynamic to the game. In this guide, we’ll explore how to play BS with three players, discuss strategies to outwit your opponents, and dive into the nuances that make this game so engaging.


How to Play BS Card Game with 3 Players

Objective

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 the rank of the cards they are playing (e.g., “two 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 doesn’t affect gameplay.
  2. Determine the First Player: The player with the lowest card (e.g., Ace of Spades) or chosen by mutual agreement goes first.

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” or “two Queens”). The declared rank must follow a sequence (e.g., Aces, then 2s, then 3s, and so on).
  2. Bluffing: Players can lie about the cards they are playing. For example, if it’s the turn for 5s, a player might place two 8s face-down and declare “two 5s.”
  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 continues the sequence, declaring the next rank in order (e.g., after 5s, it’s 6s).

Winning the Game

The first player to successfully play all their cards wins the game. The remaining players continue until only one player is left with cards.


Strategies for Playing BS with 3 Players

Playing BS with three players requires a mix of strategy, psychology, and adaptability. Here are some tips to help you dominate the game:

  1. Observe Patterns: Pay attention to how your opponents play. Do they tend to bluff often? Are they hesitant to call BS? Use this information to your advantage.
  2. Bluff Sparingly: While bluffing is a key part of the game, overdoing it can make you an easy target. Mix in truthful plays to keep your opponents guessing.
  3. Call BS Wisely: Don’t call BS too often, as a wrong accusation can cost you the game. Wait for moments when you’re reasonably confident the other player is lying.
  4. Manage Your Hand: Try to get rid of high-value cards early, as they can be harder to play later in the game.
  5. Psychological Warfare: Use subtle cues, like hesitation or confidence, to mislead your opponents. A well-timed smirk or nervous glance can make all the difference.

Why BS is Perfect for 3 Players

Playing BS with three players creates a more intimate and strategic experience compared to larger groups. With fewer players, each move carries more weight, and the game becomes a battle of wits and nerves. The smaller group also allows for deeper observation of opponents’ tendencies, making the game even more engaging.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you play BS with a partial deck?

A: Yes, you can play with a partial deck, but it’s best to use a standard 52-card deck for balanced gameplay.

Q: What happens if two players call BS at the same time?

A: The first player to call BS gets priority. If both calls are simultaneous, the player whose turn is next decides who made the call first.

Q: Can you play BS with more than three players?

A: Absolutely! BS can be played with 2 or more players, but the dynamics change with the number of participants.

Q: Is there a way to make BS more challenging?

A: You can add house rules, such as requiring players to play a minimum number of cards each turn or introducing penalties for failed BS calls.


BS is a game that combines luck, strategy, and deception, making it a timeless favorite for players of all ages. Whether you’re playing with three people or a larger group, the thrill of bluffing and the satisfaction of catching a lie never gets old. So gather your friends, shuffle the deck, and let the games begin!