Kings Corner Card Game Rules: How to Play Step-by-Step

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If you’re looking to enjoy a fast-paced, strategic card game, mastering the Kings Corner card game rules is a great place to start. Whether you’re new to this classic or just need a refresher, this guide explains everything from setup to gameplay, and gives you helpful tips along the way.

kings corner card game rules

Table of Contents

Overview of Kings Corner Card Game Rules

Kings Corner, sometimes called Kings in the Corner, is a competitive solitaire-style game typically played with 2–4 players using a standard 52-card deck. The objective is to be the first to play all your cards by building descending sequences of alternating colors in a layout similar to solitaire.

What You Need to Play

  • Players: 2 to 4
  • Deck: One standard 52-card deck
  • Goal: Be the first player to get rid of all your cards

Kings Corner Card Game Setup

  1. Shuffle the deck and deal 7 cards to each player.
  2. Place the remaining deck face down in the center as the draw pile.
  3. Draw four cards from the top of the deck and place them face-up in the shape of a cross: one each at the top, bottom, left, and right of the draw pile. These are the foundation piles.
  4. These piles are where players will build their sequences.

Kings Corner Instructions: How to Play

Each turn consists of the following steps:

  1. Draw one card from the draw pile.
  2. Play cards onto the foundation piles by building descending sequences with alternating red and black suits (e.g., red Queen, black Jack, red 10).
  3. If a player has a King, they may start a new pile in any of the four diagonal corners—this is what gives the game its name.
  4. You can move entire piles onto other piles if the sequence allows (e.g., move a red 10 stack onto a black Jack).
  5. End your turn when no more moves are available.

Play continues clockwise until one player plays all their cards.

Kings Corner Card Game Rules: Special Notes

  • Kings can only be played in the corners when those spaces are empty.
  • Only Kings can start a corner pile.
  • You may move your own cards and piles during your turn.
  • You are not required to play all possible moves, but strategic play is encouraged.
  • The game ends when one player has no cards left.

Winning the Game

The first player to play all their cards wins the round. You can choose to play multiple rounds and track points, assigning values to the cards left in opponents’ hands if desired.

Strategy Tips for Kings Corner

Mastering the Kings Corner card game rules means learning to play both defensively and aggressively. Here are a few tips:

  • Hold onto Kings until a corner is empty so you can start a pile.
  • Block opponents by maintaining full foundation piles to prevent them from playing.
  • Plan pile moves in advance to free up critical cards and spaces.
  • Keep an eye on the number of cards in your opponents’ hands.

FAQ: Kings Corner Card Game Rules

How many cards do you deal in Kings Corner?

Each player is dealt 7 cards at the start of the game. The rest go into a central draw pile.

Can you move multiple cards at once?

Yes, if the sequence is valid, descending order with alternating colors, you can move entire stacks during your turn.

What happens if no moves are available?

You must still draw a card. If no plays can be made after drawing, your turn ends.

Can I play multiple Kings in one turn?

Yes, as long as there are empty corners and you have the Kings available, you can play more than one in a single turn.

Final Thoughts on Kings Corner Card Game Rules

Now that you know the full Kings Corner card game rules, you’re ready to challenge your friends or family to a game. This guide has covered the directions for Kings Corner card game, including setup, gameplay, and tips to win. Whether you call it Kings in the Corner or Kings Corner, this game is a fun way to sharpen your strategy and enjoy classic card play.