

Players: 2 to 4 players can use 1 deck of TOUGH LUCK cards. For each additional group of 4 players, you will need an additional deck of TOUGH LUCK cards.
Object of the game: Be the first to play all of the cards in your hand and in front of you!
The dealer evenly deals the TOUGH LUCK cards from the deck(s) to all the players and discard any extra cards.
Without looking at your cards, the dealer will decide how many cards (between 4 to 8) will be laid face-down in front of each player. Everyone will lay the same amount.
Example :

While continuing not to look at your cards, place one card face-up on each of the cards you just placed face-down.
Example:

After setting up the cards on the table equally, the remaining cards make up your playing hand.

REVERSE: The REVERSE card reverses the play of the game (counter-clockwise to clockwise or vice versa). If a player plays a REVERSE card the next player has to match or beat the value card that was previously played. If you play a REVERSE card your turn is finished.
Note: In a 2-player game if you play a REVERSE card, play returns to you. If the card you play after the REVERSE card has a lower value than the card previously played... "TOUGH LUCK!" If you play a higher value card the play continues to the next person.




1. More or less cards: Try playing with less cards in front of you and more cards in your hand or vice versa to add a different challenge!
2. Timer: Before the game starts, get a timer, and have the dealer decide which way you will be passing your cards either to the left or to the right and how long the timer will be set for. When the timer goes off change directions. No cheating, keep up the pace, and no wasting time. Reset time and continue...
3. Take score:
Value Cards 2 through 12 = 5 points
Special Cards = 10 points
Trade Hand Cards = 20 points
Before starting your game decide the max amout of points the game will end at (example: 100, 200, 500, etc.). The first person with the highest score loses! Lowest score WINS! To spice up the game, add in fun bets. For example, loser washes winners car or loser buys ice cream. All fun and games until... “TOUGH LUCK”!
4. Decks Added: For a longer version, mix TOUGH LUCK and TOUGH LUCK 2 together.