How to Play UNO: Your Guide to Crushing Game Night

Not just sticking to its original roots, UNO has branched out into an array of versions, each with a twist that promises a fresh experience. From UNO Attack with its random card-shooting mayhem to UNO Remix’s cheeky challenges, there's a flavor for every taste. Whether you're nostalgic for the classic design or craving the excitement of the latest iterations, there's a UNO for you.

So, are you ready to become the champion of the UNO card game with friends? Read on as we throw down the ultimate guide on how to play the UNO card game. Toy Kingdom is here to help you prepare game strategies, learn the rules, and above all, keep that sneaky 'Draw Four' up your sleeve for just the right moment. 

Getting The Game Started

Two to 10 players can play UNO in each game. The deck has 112 cards, including special cards and blank cards. 

Here's your starting point: The dealer of the game shuffles the deck and gives each player seven cards. The rest of the UNO deck forms the draw pile where each player will draw a card. Take one card from the top of the draw pile to start the discard pile. 

Playing The Game

The player on the left of the dealer starts the game. Players take turns to match the top card in the discard pile with a card from their hand by color, number, or symbol. Otherwise, if you don’t have a card to play, draw a new card from the draw pile and end your turn.

What is your mission in this popular card game? Be the first player to get rid of all cards in your hands and score points for the cards your opponents are left holding. The first player to earn 500 points wins the game on UNO.

The Critical Uno Call

One important thing each UNO player must not forget to do before playing their next-to-last card is to shout “Uno!” If you forget to say UNO and another player catches you with just one card in hand, you have to draw four cards from the draw pile.

The Scoring

If you’re the first player to empty your hand of cards in the game, you get to score points for all the cards left in the hands of your opponents. The winner of the game is the first player to reach a total of 500 points. 

Each card is equivalent to a point:

The Power Cards: Flipping the Script

UNO classic game's special cards are the true game-changers. When playing, you need to wield these cards with strategy and a hint of mischief to outmaneuver your opponents and edge closer to victory. Here’s what each UNO’s special cards mean:

1. Reverse Card

This card switches the direction of play. When you play this card, the order of turns is reversed. You can only put down a Reverse card if it matches the color of the top card on the discard pile or another Reverse card.

1. Skip Card

This card is the ultimate snub that bypasses the player next to you. Playing this card means the player next to you loses their turn in the game. Similar to the UNO Reverse card, the Skip card can only be played when a card matches its color or another Skip card is on top of the discard pile. 

1. Draw 2 Cards

This card forces the next player to pick up two cards and miss their turn, changing their plans to win the game. You can only play this card on a matching color or another Draw 2 card.

1. Wild Card

This card allows you to change the color of the cards being played to another color. If you want to turn around the game, you can use this card even when you have a playable card in hand.

1. Wild Draw 4 Card

This wildcard with a sting not only allows color change but also forces the next player to draw four cards and forfeit their turn. However, the only time you can play this card is when you don’t have a card in hand that matches the color of the card previously played. 

The hitch is this: You can play the Wild Draw 4 card even if you have a matching number or word card of a different color. If you suspect a player played this card illegally, you are free to challenge them and see their cards. If they are guilty, they have to draw four cards.

1. Blank Card

This extra special card allows you to customize the game to your liking. The blank card is used when players decide on a new rule for the game. Like with other Wild cards, you decide on a color before playing this card.

How to Win UNO Card Game

1. Plan Your Moves

When you're playing a UNO with friends or family, keep an eye on your cards and the discard pile to predict your opponent’s actions. It’s more than just following the UNO card game mechanics, it's also about adapting a strategy based on how the game’s going. 

1. Use Special Cards Wisely

Have you ever dared to draw a special card despite having a playable one in hand? Don’t waste your special cards on just anyone. Save it for drama when you think your opponent thinks they’re winning the game. 

For example, a Wild Draw Four might be your ace in the hole, changing the game when your opponent least expects it. A Skip or Reverse card can effortlessly disrupt another player's flow, giving you a few extra turns. Knowing when to strike with these trump cards will keep other players on their toes and inch you closer to that winning shout of "Uno!"

1. Master the Bluff

Now, let's inject a little playfulness into our UNO game plan. A good and well-timed bluff, executed with a poker face, can throw everyone in the game off and buy you precious time to plot your next move.

Enjoy a Game of UNO Now!

Now that you're armed with all the knowledge and tricks on how to win the UNO card game, it’s time to put your skills to the test! Gather your friends and family, shuffle the deck, and let the UNO showdown begin.

Whether you're the strategic mastermind or the king of playful sabotage, UNO is the ultimate game for everyone. And remember, the ultimate victory lies not just in the thrill of a win but in the sheer joy of playing together. 

Ready to play UNO? Browse our collection of card games for kids online. You can find more toys to shop at Toy Kingdom online.

Check out these UNO card games at Toy Kingdom for your next game night:

Mattel Games UNO Remix Card Game

Mattel Games Uno Junior Action Play