Cribbage is a classic card game full of strategy and fast-paced fun. Now you can enjoy playing Cribbage online for free right on this page. Whether you’re a beginner or just need a refresher, this guide will help you understand how to play and score points — and how to be the first to reach 121 to win!
Objective of Cribbage
Be the first player to score 121 points. Points are earned by making card combinations during play and in your hand, including 15s, pairs, runs, flushes, and more.
Game Setup
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A standard 52-card deck is used.
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Each player is dealt 6 cards.
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Players choose 2 cards to discard into the “crib” (a separate hand scored by the dealer).
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One card is cut from the deck and placed face-up – this is called the starter card.
How to Play Cribbage
The game has two main phases: The Play and The Show.
1. The Play
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Players take turns laying down one card at a time.
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Keep a running total without going over 31.
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Score points during play for:
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15: Total exactly 15 – 2 points
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Pair: Two cards of the same rank – 2 points
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Three-of-a-kind: 6 points
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Four-of-a-kind: 12 points
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Run (e.g. 4-5-6): 3+ points
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Exactly 31: 2 points
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Last card played: 1 point
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2. The Show
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After all cards are played, each player adds up their hand + the starter card.
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The dealer also scores the crib.
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Score combos like:
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Fifteens
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Pairs
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Runs
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Flush (4+ same suit)
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His nob: Jack of the same suit as the starter – 1 point
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Scoring Summary
| Combo | Points |
|---|---|
| Fifteen (cards total 15) | 2 |
| Pair | 2 |
| Three of a kind | 6 |
| Four of a kind | 12 |
| Run of 3 | 3 |
| Run of 4 | 4 |
| Flush (4 cards) | 4 |
| Flush (5 cards incl. starter) | 5 |
| His nob (matching Jack) | 1 |
The first player to reach 121 points wins! The game ends immediately, even during the middle of a round.
Pro Tips
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Try to keep cards that total 15 or form potential runs.
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Watch what your opponent plays — it helps to block their scoring chances.
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Use the pegs on the Cribbage board to track points after each hand.
