UNO is a classic and entertaining card game that brings friends and family together. It’s easy to learn but offers endless fun with its quick moves, colorful cards, and unexpected twists. Whether you’re playing casually or competitively, it always combines strategy, luck, and a little chaos to keep things exciting. In this guide, you’ll learn the basic rules to start playing UNO and enjoy the game without any confusion. Let’s get into it!
What is UNO?
UNO is a classic card game where players aim to be the first to get rid of all their cards. It uses a colorful deck with numbers and action cards that add excitement and strategy.
How to Set Up the UNO Game?
Setting up UNO is quick and simple, making it perfect for spontaneous game nights. Follow these steps to prepare your game:
- Choose Players: UNO can be played with 2–10 players, and it is suitable for ages 7 and up. It’s a versatile game that works well for family gatherings, casual hangouts, or even team play if you want to mix things up.
- Determine the Dealer: Each player draws one card from the shuffled deck. The player with the highest-value card becomes the dealer. If there’s a tie, the tied players draw again until the dealer is determined.
- Shuffle the Cards: Shuffle the deck thoroughly to mix up the cards and ensure a fair distribution during the game.
- Deal the Cards: The dealer gives 7 cards to each player, face down. Make sure everyone keeps their cards hidden from the others.
- Prepare the Draw and Discard Piles: Place the remaining cards face down to form the Draw Pile in the center of the table. Then, take the top card from the Draw Pile and place it face up to create the Discard Pile.
If the first card is a Wild or Wild Draw Four, return it to the Draw Pile and draw a new card. If the card is an action card like Reverse or Skip, apply its effect before the game begins.
Once the setup is complete, the player to the left of the dealer starts the game.
Basic Rules for Playing UNO
Here are the basic rules you need to know to play UNO.
Matching Cards
Players must match the card in the discard pile by color or number. For example, if the top card is a red 7, you can play any red card of a different number or different colors with the number 7.
You can learn more about the different types of cards in UNO in our article on UNO Card Types
Drawing Cards
If you can’t match a card, draw one from the pile. If you can play it, you may do so; otherwise, your turn ends.
Special Cards
Special cards like Skip, Reverse, Draw Two, and Wild add excitement. They allow players to skip others’ turns, reverse the direction, or force draws.
Learn how each action card works by checking out our guide on UNO Special Cards
Calling UNO
When you have one card left, shout “UNO.” If another player catches you without saying it, you must draw two cards as a penalty.
Scoring in UNO
Scoring in UNO is how players keep track of their progress after each round. The winner of a round earns points based on the cards left in their opponents’ hands. The first player to reach the target score, usually 500 points wins the game. Here’s how scoring works:
- Number Cards: Cards numbered 0 to 9 are worth their face value. For example, a card with the number 5 is worth 5 points.
- Action Cards: Reverse, Skip, and Draw Two cards are worth 20 points each.
- Wild Cards: Both Wild and Wild Draw Four cards are worth 50 points each.
At the end of each round, the winning player adds up the points from all cards left in their opponents’ hands. These points are added to their total score. Instead of stopping at 500 points, players can set a different target, like 200 or 1,000 points.
Check out our article on UNO Game Variations & Special Editions , which includes scoring in different game versions
Conclusion
UNO is a simple yet exciting game that’s easy to learn and play. It’s perfect for any occasion, bringing friends and family together for a lively and memorable time. Now that you know how to play, grab a deck and let the fun begin!
FAQ
What to Do When Two Players Have One Card Left in UNO?
If two players have one card left at the same time, both players must say “UNO” as quickly as possible. If either player forgets to say “UNO” and gets caught by another player, they must draw two cards as a penalty. The game then continues as normal, with the next player taking their turn.
Can you play an action card as your last card?
Yes, you can play an action card as your last card in UNO. If it matches the color or symbol on the discard pile, you can use it to finish the game. For example, playing a Skip, Reverse, or Draw Two card is allowed.
Can multiple action cards be played at once?
No, you cannot play multiple action cards at the same time in UNO. Each turn, you can only play one card, whether it’s a number card or an action card. If you have more than one action card, you need to wait for your next turn to play another one. This rule keeps the game fair and gives every player a chance to respond.
Can you end a UNO game with a wild card?
Yes, you can end a UNO game with a Wild card. If it’s your last card and it matches the rules of play, you can play it to finish the game. A Wild card lets you choose the color, so you have the flexibility to match it with any situation. Play it wisely and you can secure your win!
