If a player reaches exactly 31, they get 2 points. The scoring player may then play another card without exceeding 31.

If a player cannot play a card from their hand without exceeding 31, they say, “Go,” and the other player scores 1 point. For example, the non-dealing player may put a 6 down and say, “6.” The dealer then may play an 8 and say, “14.” The running total can never exceed 31. Each player announces the running total as they play their card. Each card’s numeric value is added to the previous card’s numeric value to track the score up to a total of 31, with kings, queens, and jacks counting for 10, and aces counting as 1. Then, the dealer reveals a card on their side of the table. After the starter card is revealed, the non-dealing player reveals a card from their hand. If the starter card is a Jack, the dealer starts the game with 2 points automatically. The starter card is used to help calculate points at the end of play. These cards are called the 'crib.' Next, cut the deck and reveal the top card on the bottom half. Place these cards off to the side face-down. Then, each player looks at their hand and chooses 2 cards to remove from the game. Whoever has the lowest card on the bottom of their half deals first. To start the game, shuffle the deck and have each player take half of it. The goal of Cribbage is to score 121 points before your opponent by creating different card combinations. To play Cribbage, you'll need a Cribbage board, pegs, and a deck of cards.

If you play the last card for the round, gain 1 point.

For example, if you played a 4 on your turn and your opponent played a 2 on their turn, you could play a 3 to earn 3 points.

If the card you play completes a sequential run of cards, earn 1 point for each card in the run, no matter what order the cards were played in.

If you are able to play the 4th card of the same value, you move forward 12 points!

If your opponent has another matching card, they’ll earn 6 points.

If you make a pair by matching the last card your opponent played, get 2 points.

If the last card played makes the total count 31, score 2 points.

When a played card brings the count exactly to 15, score 2 points.

That way, players can see the last amount that you scored. Whenever you score points, take the peg of your color that’s furthest back and move it ahead of the one that’s in front. Watch what cards your opponent plays and pay attention to the count to get extra “pegging” points.

Cribbage how to play