The Circle of Death, also known as Ring of Fire, is a popular drinking card game that combines chance, strategy, and a bit of social lubrication. While the rules can vary slightly depending on the group, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the standard gameplay. This game is intended for adults only and should be played responsibly.
What You'll Need:
- A standard deck of 52 playing cards
- Drinks for players (beer, shots, etc.) – always drink responsibly
- A circle of players
The Setup:
- Arrange the Cards: Place the deck face down in the center, forming a circle.
- Determine Starting Player: Choose a player to start, often done randomly.
Gameplay and Card Rules:
Each card in the deck dictates a specific action or rule, contributing to the unpredictable and often hilarious nature of the game. Here’s a breakdown of the standard rules. Variations exist, so agree on specific rules before starting the game.
2 - Two Truths and a Lie: The player must tell two truths and a lie about themselves. Other players guess the lie. Failure to fool anyone results in a drink.
3 - Categories: The player names a category (e.g., animals, countries, movies). Going clockwise, each player must name something from that category. Failure to name something within a reasonable time frame or repeating a previous answer results in a drink.
4 - Floor is Lava: All players must immediately stand up, touching only the floor. The last person to do so takes a drink.
5 - Thumb Master: The player becomes the "Thumb Master." Whenever the Thumb Master puts their thumb on the table, all other players must immediately follow suit. The last one to put their thumb down drinks.
6 - Question Master: The player asks a question to any other player. The other player MUST answer truthfully. Failing to answer, or lying, results in a drink.
7 - Heaven: All players must raise their hands. The last one to raise their hand drinks.
8 - Mate: The player chooses another player to drink with them.
9 - Rhyme Time: The player says a word, and the next player must say a word that rhymes. This continues around the circle, with anyone failing to rhyme within a reasonable time or repeating a word taking a drink.
10 - Categories (Reverse): Same as rule 3 but in reverse order.
Jack - Make a Rule: The player creates a new rule that everyone must follow for the remainder of the game (e.g., "No eye contact," "Everyone must speak in a British accent").
Queen - Waterfall: All players start drinking simultaneously. No one can stop drinking until the player to their left stops.
King - Waterfall (Reverse): Similar to the Queen but the drinking order is reversed.
Ace - Waterfall and choose a person to drink: This combines the elements of the King and Queen rules.
What happens if you draw more than one card?
That depends on your group's rules. Some groups draw another card, some drink double. Agree on this rule beforehand.
Winning the Game:
There isn't a traditional "winner" in Circle of Death. The goal is usually to have fun, socialize, and enjoy the unpredictable nature of the game. The game ends when the deck runs out, or when the group decides to stop.
Variations and House Rules:
Many groups customize the game with their own house rules, adding or modifying card effects to suit their preferences. This creativity is part of the game’s appeal.
Responsible Drinking:
Remember that Circle of Death is a drinking game, and responsible consumption is crucial. Always drink responsibly, know your limits, and never pressure anyone to drink more than they’re comfortable with.
This comprehensive guide provides the foundation for a fun and engaging game of Circle of Death. Remember to tailor the rules to your group's preferences and always prioritize safety and responsible drinking.
