The River
Cross the 5-card bridge by guessing higher or lower, and drink at every fall. The full rules of The River, the party card game.
- 1–10 players
- 15–30 min
- A phone
- Drinking game
Game rules
Goal of the game
Cross the river: pass the 5 hidden cards of the bridge by guessing each time whether the next one is higher or lower. At the end, whoever drank the most takes the title of Biggest Splash.
Crossing
Each player has their own start card, face up, which they keep until they cross. At each step, they call Higher or Lower. The Ace is the highest card. An equal card makes you fall!
Splash
If the player is wrong, they drink as many sips as the step number (1 to 5), and the next player takes over. On their next turn, they start over with a new bridge.
Giving up
After 3 falls, a player can give up: they leave the river without crossing. Every 5 falls, the app suggests giving up.
End of the game
A player who crosses leaves the river. The game ends when everyone has crossed or given up.
Frequently asked questions
How many players for The River?
From 1 to 10 players.
Do you need a deck of cards?
No, the app draws the bridge cards and keeps each player's starting card.
What happens when you fall?
You drink as many sips as the number of the step, from 1 to 5, and you will start again with a new bridge. After 3 falls, you can give up.
Can you play The River without alcohol?
Yes: count points or forfeits instead of sips, or play with soft drinks. If you drink, drink responsibly, and never drive afterwards.