Bartok

    We're not really sure what language Bartok comes from, or what it means, but it's one of our favorite games. There's tons of room to be creative, and this game (sometimes called Shithead, by the way) always results in a lot of laughs and (friendly or not-so-friendly) yelling. Ideally, Bartok takes over an hour, and gets more fun as the game goes on. An outlandish party game which we hope you'll give a chance.

The Basics:

• 2-4 players ( two decks for up to 6 players)
• Standard 52-card deck(s)
• The objective is to get rid of all of your cards.
• You may play 1 card at a time
• When the game begins, you may not tell any lies or ask any questions.
• Breaking the above rule results in the drawing of one card per offense.
• The winner of each round gets to make a new rule which can be anything
• ANY rule can be created, modified, deleted, etc. unless declared utterly stupid by everyone.

Gameplay:

• Seven cards are dealt out to every player before the game begins, and the top card of the pile is turned face up. 
• The dealer announces when the game begins, and the player to their left must place a card of the same suit or value (i.e. on a 6 of spades, a spade or a 6 may be played). If they cannot play a card, they must draw a card and their turn is over.
• Play goes clockwise. 
• The penalty for breaking any of the rules (e.g. the no question rule) is drawing a card.
• When a player is down to one card, he or she must announce "Bartok." If they are caught not doing so, they must draw X amount of cards. (We usually use 3)
• When a player plays the last card in their hand, the round has ended and they win. Gameplay is paused for shuffling and rule-making.

Some of our Favorite Rules:

1. Snaps 
   • If a player has a card in their hand of the same value as the one out, they can lay it down regardless of whose turn it is and declare "Snap!" 
   • Saying "Aww snap!" or some other variation of the phrase is acceptable.
2. 5-second rule
• For all those masterminds who like to plan out the whole game in advance on their turn, we invented this time limit. 
• Those who take longer than 5 seconds per turn will draw a card and have their turn skipped.
3. Strip Bartok
• Winner of the round chooses one loser to remove an article of clothing. Keep it classy.*
4. Taboo Words
• Certain words or types of words are not permitted during gameplay.
• Our favorites are "you" and pronouns
5. Card Values
• e.g. Aces reverse the direction of play, 2's make the next player draw two cards
6. Jokers Wild
• Jokers may be played on top of any card, and the player may declare a different suit.
7. Gestures and Actions
• Great for being an asshole. Sometimes we like to be fancy and ban elbows on the table.

*optional

Any suggestions, questions, or comments? Email us.