Slapjack
Also known as: Slap Jack, Slap-Jack
Flip cards, watch for Jacks, slap fast. Whoever grabs all the cards wins.
Sign in to rate this game
What You'll Need
About This Game
A speed-based card game where players take turns flipping cards onto a central pile and race to slap the pile when a Jack appears. The first to slap wins the pile. Collect all the cards to win. Simple enough for kids, fast enough to stay fun for adults.
How to Play
**Setup:** Deal the entire deck face-down as evenly as possible. Players don't look at their cards.
**Gameplay:** Players take turns flipping their top card onto a central pile. When a Jack appears, the first player to slap the pile takes all the cards in it and adds them to the bottom of their hand.
**Key rules:**
- Flip cards away from you (no peeking)
- False slaps (slapping when it's not a Jack) cost you: give the top card of your hand to the other player
- If you run out of cards, you get one chance. Stay in the game until the next Jack appears. Slap it, and you're back in.
**Winning:** Collect all 52 cards.
History & Background
Slapjack has been a children's card game staple since at least the mid-1800s in America. Its origins likely trace to the older Egyptian Ratscrew (or Rat Slap) family of games that use physical speed as a mechanic. The game's simplicity made it one of the first card games taught to children across generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play Slapjack with 2 players?
Yes! Slapjack is an excellent choice for 2 players — in fact, it's designed specifically for a duo. You'll get the full experience without any compromises.
How long does Slapjack take to play?
A typical game of Slapjack takes about 5-10 min. This can vary based on players' experience level and how quickly decisions are made.
What do you need to play Slapjack?
To play Slapjack, you need: Standard 52-card deck. That's it — no special equipment required.
Featured In
Similar Games
Rummy
CardMaster the perfect blend of luck and strategy in this timeless classic—draw, discard, and outmaneuver your opponent to claim victory in thrilling head-to-head Rummy matches.
Blackjack (Two-Player)
CardGo head-to-head in the ultimate card duel—outsmart your opponent to hit 21 without busting in this fast-paced, high-stakes two-player adaptation of the casino classic.
Crazy Eights
CardQuick, tactical card game where a single eight can flip the tables instantly. Perfect for two players who love fast-paced competition with just enough strategy to keep things interesting.
War
CardSettle disputes instantly with nothing but a deck of cards—pure, fast-paced luck where every flip could shift the balance. Perfect for quick head-to-head showdowns anytime, anywhere.
Go Fish
CardChallenge your opponent to a classic card game of memory and strategy where every request counts. Perfect for quick, head-to-head matches that anyone can learn in seconds.
Speed
CardNo waiting for your turn—both players play simultaneously in this adrenaline-fueled race to empty their hands first. Pure reflex and speed decide the winner in just minutes.
Egyptian Rat Screw
CardLightning-fast reflexes meet strategic card play in this high-octane slapping game where you'll battle for control of the pile with pattern recognition and split-second timing.
Spit
CardRace your opponent in this lightning-fast card game where quick reflexes and sharp strategy collide. Empty your hand first while battling for control of the center piles in this thrilling two-player s
Want something different than Slapjack?
Answer 4 quick questions and we'll pick a game for tonight.
Explore More Games
Discover the most popular two-player games or browse by category.