Cribbage has been played for centuries but it’s often the unexpected house rules that make it truly memorable. Whether you’re gathered around the kitchen table, playing in a tournament, or just want to shake things up, custom rules can add new strategy, laughs, and even a little chaos to your game.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular, and quirky, cribbage variations you might want to try.
Popular House Rules & Custom Variations
Skunk & Double Skunk
Win by 31+ points? It counts as a double loss.
Win by 61+? Triple loss. High stakes make every point matter.
No Flushes Allowed
Skip flushes completely. Focus on 15s, pairs, and runs.
Dealer’s Double Crib
If the dealer scores zero in their hand, they double their crib score. Risky — but fun.
Reverse Counting Round
Call out your opponent’s score instead of your own. Mess up? You lose those points.
In the Mud (Corners Rule)
Land on a corner hole (30, 60, 90, 120)? Your hand and crib don't count — only pegging moves you forward.
Peg Out
Within your final 5 points, you can’t count hand or crib — only pegging can win.
Muggins
Forget to count points? Your opponent can call “Muggins!” and claim them.
Loser’s Crib (Lowball/Golf)
First to 121 loses. Try to score as little as possible.
Nineteen Rule
Score zero in hand or crib? Move back 19 points.
Nineteen Rule (Shanty)
Score zero in hand or crib? Move forward 19 points.
Optional Jokers
Add jokers as wild cards for unpredictable hands.
Mandatory Discards
Agree certain cards (like 5s) must always go to the crib if drawn.
Cut Bonus
Cut a 5? Gain 2 bonus points.
Push-To-Continue
Don’t reshuffle — play next game with remaining deck order.
Knubs
Hold three Jacks not matching the cut? Lose a point.
Tips for Playing with House Rules
- Agree on them before starting
- Keep a written “house rules” card to avoid confusion
- Mix simpler rules with creative ones to keep the game flowing
Why House Rules Shine on an LED Cribbage Board
Our LED Cribbage Board at SANDL Electronics makes house rules even better:
- Clear digital scoring: track Peg Out, In the Mud, and Muggins effortlessly
- Custom flexibility: great for casual play and tournaments alike
- Inclusive design: easy to see and use for players of all ages or abilities
House rules often spark debate — our board keeps it fun and fair.
Do you have house rules not listed? Tell us about it.