Card games to play online with friends

Looking for a card game to play with friends who aren't in the same room? These classic types of game work well online, and you can start one in a minute.

Memory games: Rafiki, Cabo, Cambio and Golf

You keep most of your cards hidden and try to remember what's where. Rounds are short, there's lots of interaction, and anyone can learn in two minutes. Rafiki is free in the browser. It adds slamming (dumping a matching card the moment it appears) and a "Rafiki!" call to end the round. See how to play, or how it compares with Cabo, Cambio and Golf.

Shedding games

Games where the aim is to get rid of all your cards first, such as Crazy Eights and its many branded versions. They're good for big groups and younger players.

Trick-taking games

Whist, Hearts and Spades: play the highest card to win each trick. They're more strategic, and best with exactly four players.

Rummy-style games

Collect sets and runs before anyone else. Rounds are slower and calmer, and suit two to four players.

What makes a card game good online?

• No setup: it runs in a browser, without everyone needing to install an app.
• A room code: friends join one private table, wherever they are.
• Computer players: to fill empty seats or practise alone.
• Automatic scoring and timers: so nobody has to keep score or chase slow players.

Rafiki was built around all four. Make a room, send the invite link on WhatsApp, and you're playing.

Questions

What is a good free card game to play online with friends?

Rafiki is a free browser card game for 2 to 6 players. You create a private room, share the invite link, and can add computer players to fill seats.