How to play The Traitors at home: a simple game for your next party

You can play a Traitors-style game at home with a pack of playing cards and a group of friends. Some players are secretly Traitors, the rest are Faithfuls, and everyone argues over who to banish. This is an original, informal version inspired by the idea, not an official game.

What do you need?

• 6 or more players (more is better)
• A pack of playing cards
• A host who does not play, or who plays as a spectator
• A table to sit round

How do you set it up?

1. Choose how many Traitors you want: one for every four or five players is a good start.
2. The host deals each player one card face down, with aces as Traitors and any other card as Faithful. Players look at their own card secretly.
3. Everyone closes their eyes. The Traitors open their eyes silently so they know each other, then close them again.

How does a round work?

1. Night. Everyone closes their eyes. The Traitors silently choose a player to "murder" by pointing. The host notes who.
2. Morning. Eyes open. The host announces who was murdered. That player is out and shows their card.
3. Round table. Everyone discusses and accuses. Then everyone points at the player they want to banish. The player with the most votes is out and reveals their card.
4. Repeat until the Traitors are gone (Faithfuls win) or Traitors outnumber Faithfuls (Traitors win).

What missions can we add?

Give every player a small secret mission, like using a certain word in conversation. See also Don't Get Got, which does this properly.

Want something with more polish?

Try the games in our games like The Traitors guide, or the Traitors Christmas Crackers.

Tips for a good game

• Use a host to keep order.
• Keep discussions to a time limit.
• Eliminated players can watch and enjoy.

FAQ

Is this an official game?

No. It is a general hidden-role party game, similar to other well-known games of this type.

Can children play?

Use your judgement. Keep the theme gentle and skip the "murder" if you prefer, for example calling it "sneaking away".