How to Play Kemps

Kemps can provide a fun and relaxing way to pass some time. Gather a group for this exciting card game of secret signals and quick decisions. You only need to know a few basic rules to play.

Things You'll Need

• Deck of 52 playing cards
• 4 or more players

Instructions

1. Spread out at a large table or on the floor. Each player needs one partner, but partners may not sit next to each other. Ideally, team members will sit across from one another.

2. Meet in private with your partner to agree on a secret signal. The signal should be something subtle, such as scratching the ear or crossing your arms. You will use this signal to indicate to your partner when you acquire 4 cards of the same number. Or, your partner will use it to signal to you that she has have 4 of a kind.

3. Choose a dealer. The dealer will distribute 4 cards to everyone at the table. Do not show your cards to anyone else. The dealer then places the pile of remaining cards in front of him face down.

4. Begin Kemps. The dealer takes the top card from the pile and reviews it. He may choose to keep it or discard it, face down, to the player on his left. When the player on the left has reviewed the card, he will either keep it or pass it on to the next player. This continues around the table. Players must have only 4 cards in their hand at once. If you choose to keep a new card passed to you, replace it with a card from your hand and pass that card to the left. The dealer keeps picking the top card off the pile and continues to pass it around the circle.

5. Gather 4 of a kind. When a player has obtained 4 cards of the same number, she must signal her partner to win the game. When the player signals her partner, she must yell, "Kemps!" At that point, play must stop, and the team with 4 of a kind must show its cards. If the partner has 4 of a kind, this team has won the game.

6. Win the game another way. If you notice a team signaling or you think someone has 4 of a kind, yell, "Stop Kemps!" before anyone on that team yells, "Kemps!" If the player you stopped does indeed hold 4 of a kind, your team wins. If the player you called out does not have 4 of a kind, your team is out and play continues without you and your partner.

7. Spell out the word K-E-M-P-S. Each time a team loses a hand, they receive a letter. The first team to spell KEMPS loses the game.

Tips & Warnings

• There are a few variations to the rules of Kemps. Do not be surprised if you run into people who play a slightly different way. Compromise by agreeing to mutually acceptable rules.