The Golf card game is a classic and easy-to-learn card game that’s perfect for families, casual players, and even competitive game nights. Often compared to games like Gin Rummy, Golf is about strategy, memory, and a bit of luck. Whether you’re new or just need a refresher, this complete guide will walk you through the golf card game rules, variations, and where to find a Golf card game rules PDF to download and share.
What Is the Golf Card Game?
The Golf card game, not to be confused with the sport, is a multi-round game where players aim to score the lowest points possible over several hands, just like in actual golf. The game is fast-paced, social, and simple enough for beginners while still offering strategic depth for experienced players.
Basic Golf Card Game Rules
Objective
The goal of the Golf card game is to end the game with the lowest score. Players reduce their scores by swapping higher-point cards with lower-point cards or by matching columns in some versions.
Number of Players
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2 to 6 players
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Best with 3 to 5 players
Cards Needed
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1 standard 52-card deck for up to 4 players
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2 decks for 5+ players
Jokers are optional and can be used as wild cards in some variations.
Card Values
| Card | Value |
|---|---|
| Ace | 1 point |
| 2–10 | Face value |
| Jack/Queen | 10 points |
| King | 0 points |
| Joker (optional) | -5 or wild card |
Setup
Each player receives a grid of cards, usually placed face down. The grid layout depends on the version you’re playing:
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4-Card Golf: 2×2 grid
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6-Card Golf: 2×3 grid (most popular)
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9-Card Golf: 3×3 grid (advanced)
Each player turns two random cards face-up at the start. The rest remain face down.
Place the deck in the center, and flip one card face-up next to it to form the discard pile.
Gameplay: Turn-by-Turn
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Draw a card from either the deck or the discard pile.
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Choose to:
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Replace one of your cards (face-up or face-down)
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Discard the drawn card
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If replacing, place the drawn card in your grid and discard the replaced card.
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If a column has two identical cards, it may be removed (depending on the variation).
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Play moves clockwise.
Ending a Round
A round ends when one player has all their cards face-up. Each other player gets one final turn, and then everyone totals their points.
Ending the Game
Golf is usually played over 9 rounds (like 9 holes of golf). After the final round, the player with the lowest total score wins the game.
Golf Card Game Variations
4-Card Golf Rules
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Quickest version
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2×2 grid
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No column matching
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Mostly luck-based
6-Card Golf Rules (Most Popular)
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2×3 grid
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Matching two cards in a column cancels them (0 points)
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Offers a balance of strategy and luck
9-Card Golf Rules
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3×3 grid
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More memory and strategy
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Longer game time
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Columns of three matching cards can score 0 or be removed
Joker Variation
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Jokers = wild or worth negative points (e.g., 5)
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Introduces an extra strategy
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Becomes a high-risk, high-reward element
Printable Golf Card Game Rules PDF
Looking to print and share the rules for game night? We’ve got you covered. Download a free Golf card game rules PDF below:
Download Golf Card Game Rules PDF — (via Pagat, a trusted card game rules site)
Alternatively, create your own by copying this article into a printable format and saving as a PDF using browser tools like Ctrl+P > Save as PDF.
Golf Card Game Scoring: A Quick Reference
At the end of each round, players total the point value of all cards in their grid.
Here’s a scoring example in 6-card Golf:
| Card Grid | Total Points |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4 |
| 9 | 9 (match, removed) |
| Total | 9 points |
Tips and Strategies for Beginners
While this article focuses on rules, knowing a few key tactics can help you avoid rookie mistakes:
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Keep Kings: They’re worth 0, always useful.
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Flip carefully: Don’t rush to reveal your whole grid. Stay flexible.
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Match columns: In 6-card and 9-card Golf, matching saves big points.
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Track discards: Watching what others throw away gives clues about their hand and strategy.
For more advanced strategy tips, check out this article:
Golf Card Game Strategy Guide
FAQs About Golf Card Game Rules
What’s the best number of players?
3–4 players offer the perfect balance of strategy and pace.
Can you use Jokers?
Yes, many house rules allow Jokers as wild cards or 5 point cards.
Can you play Golf with two decks?
Yes! For more than 4 players, shuffle two decks together.
How long does one round take?
A single round usually takes 5–10 minutes.
What happens if you draw the same card you discard?
You cannot redraw the same card you discarded on the same turn.
Where to Play the Golf Card Game Online
If you want to try the game virtually, here are some online options:
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Play Golf at Pogo.com (requires account)
These platforms allow you to practice the rules and test different versions before hosting a game night.
Final Thoughts: Simple, Addictive, and Strategic
The Golf card game combines the best of luck and skill in a fun and addictive format. By mastering the rules and exploring variations like 6-card or 9-card Golf, you’ll find yourself immersed in a game that’s as strategic as it is social.
Whether you’re teaching it to friends, playing with family, or hosting a tournament, use the printable Golf card game rules PDF to ensure everyone starts on equal footing.
So grab a deck, deal the cards, and see if you can keep your score under par!
