The best card games for 3 players

Three is an awkward number for a lot of card games: partnership games need four, and many classics are built for two. These games work properly with three players, at the table or online.

1. Rafiki

A fast memory game for 2 to 6. With three, everyone is always watching everyone else: who did they swap with, and what did they peek at? Rounds take about five minutes. It's free at playrafiki.com, and if one friend can't make it, a computer player can take the seat.

2. Cambio, Cabo and Golf

The same hidden-card family as Rafiki, and they all play brilliantly with three. See the Cambio, Cabo and Golf rules.

3. Rummy

Collect sets and runs and lay them down before anyone else. Three players is a sweet spot: enough competition for the discard pile without long waits.

4. Oh Hell

A trick-taking game where you bid exactly how many tricks you'll win, no more and no fewer. It works for 3 to 7 players, and three is a great way to learn it.

5. Sevens (Fan Tan)

Build each suit up and down from the 7s, and try to run out of cards first. It's simple, quick and very good with three.

6. Hearts for three

Remove one card (usually the 2 of diamonds) so the deck deals evenly, then play as normal: avoid hearts and the Queen of Spades, or try to take them all.

Playing with three online

In Rafiki, one person creates a room and sends the link to the other two, and they join with just a name. You can also add a computer player for a fourth seat.

Questions

What is a good card game for 3 people?

Rafiki, Cambio and Golf are quick and easy with three. Rummy, Oh Hell and Sevens are classic choices that also work well.

Can you play Hearts with 3 players?

Yes. Take out one card, usually the 2 of diamonds, so everyone gets 17 cards, then play as normal.

Is there a free card game for 3 players online?

Rafiki is free in your browser for 2 to 6 players. Create a room, send the link, and your friends join without signing up.