If you’re a fan of classic card games and looking for something both simple and strategic, Kings in the Corner might become your next favorite. With fast-paced turns, smart card placement, and a unique use of the corners of the game area, it’s a game that combines luck, planning, and quick thinking.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to play Kings in the Corner, from the rules and setup to winning strategies and tips.
The goal of Kings in the Corner is to be the first player to get rid of all the cards in your hand by playing them into descending sequences on the table. You do this by building stacks of cards in alternating colors (like red 9 → black 8 → red 7, etc.).
What makes the game unique is the use of the four corners of the playing area, which are reserved for Kings hence the name Kings in the Corner.
You’ll need one standard 52-card deck (no Jokers) and 2 to 6 players. Here's how to set it up:
Deal 7 cards to each player.
Place the rest of the deck face-down in the center of the table as the draw pile.
Draw four cards from the top of the deck and place one on each side of the draw pile: top, bottom, left, and right. These are your starting foundation piles.
The four corners around this cross-shaped setup will be used later when Kings are played.
Gameplay begins with the player to the dealer’s left and continues clockwise. On your turn, you can:
For example, place a black 9 on a red 10.
If one foundation pile ends in a red 8 and another starts with a black 7, you can stack them and free up a space.
This starts a new foundation pile. Only Kings can go in the corners.
You can continue to play cards until you have no more valid moves.
at the end of your turn if you haven’t played anything.
Scoring can be added to make it a longer game (see below).
Although it’s easy to learn, smart play is key to winning. Here are a few strategies to improve your chances:
Face cards and 10s are harder to play later in the game. Try to get rid of them early while you have flexibility.
Don’t play a King unless you have a corner space open. If all corners are filled, you’ll have nowhere to play future Kings.
When possible, combine foundation piles to create open spots. These spaces allow more options in future turns.
If someone is down to just a few cards, don’t help them by playing cards that might open up new moves for them.
Don’t stop after one play. You can make multiple moves in one turn, including building, combining, and placing Kings. Take advantage of that.
Kings in the Corner is ideal for:
Families looking for a fun and interactive card game,
Friends who enjoy light competition,
Players who want a mix of luck and skill,
Anyone who loves solitaire-style mechanics in multiplayer form.
Because it's easy to explain and quick to play, it’s a great game for casual gatherings or game nights.
You can play just one round, where the first person to empty their hand wins.
Or, for a longer game:
When one player empties their hand, all other players add up the points in their hand:
King = 10 points
Queen, Jack = 10 points
Number cards = face value
Ace = 1 point
Play to a target score (e.g., 100 points), and the player with the lowest score at the end wins.
This scoring version adds another layer of strategy encouraging players to manage their hands carefully and avoid holding onto high-value cards too long.
Kings in the Corner is a charming mix of classic card game elements with a unique twist. With its simple rules and fast rounds, it’s easy to learn but hard to master. Whether you’re playing with family or competing with friends, each game will keep you engaged from start to finish.
So grab a deck, gather a few players, and see who can claim the corners and the crown.