If you're looking for a game that blends the luck of cards with the strategy of board games, Sequence is a perfect choice. It's easy to learn, fun to master, and ideal for family game night or casual competition.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to play Sequence, from setup to winning strategies. And if you’re new to modern board games, check out How to Play Catan—another fan-favorite with a bit more depth.

This post is part of our How to Play Blog Series, where we break down popular games into easy-to-follow steps.

What Is Sequence?

Sequence is a board and card game hybrid where players use standard playing cards to place chips on a game board. The goal is to create sequences—rows of five chips in a row—before your opponents do. It can be played in teams or individually, and it’s great for 2–12 players.

What’s in the Box?

Your Sequence game box should include:

• 1 game board (10x10 grid featuring two decks of cards)

• 2 decks of standard playing cards (excluding Jokers)

• Colored chips for 2 or 3 teams (usually blue, green, and red)

• Instructions

Game Setup: Step-by-Step

1. Choose Teams

   • 2 to 12 players can play

   • If more than 3 players, split into equal teams

   • Teammates should sit alternately, not next to each other

2. Distribute Chips

   • Each team gets chips of one color (Blue, Green, or Red)

3. Shuffle and Deal Cards

   • Use 2 decks of standard playing cards (without Jokers)

   • Deal cards based on number of players:

     • 2 players: 7 cards each

     • 3–4 players: 6 cards each

     • 6+ players: 5 cards each

4. Place the Board

   • The board displays each card twice (except Jacks and Jokers)

   • Each corner is a free space (wild) and counts toward any sequence

How to Play: Turn by Turn

Each player takes turns in clockwise order. On your turn:

1. Play a Card from Your Hand

• Choose one card to play

• Place a chip on a matching card space on the board

• If both matching spaces are available, choose one

2. Draw a Card

• After placing your chip, draw a new card to end your turn

• Always maintain the same number of cards in hand

Special Cards: The Jacks

Jacks have special powers in Sequence:

• One-Eyed Jacks (J♣, J♦): These are removal cards

  • Use them to remove any one chip from the board (except from a completed sequence)

• Two-Eyed Jacks (J♥, J♠): These are wild cards

  • Use them to place a chip anywhere on the board

How to Win Sequence

The first player or team to complete the required number of sequences wins:

• 2 sequences for 2-player or 2-team games

• 1 sequence for 3-player or 3-team games

A sequence is five chips in a straight line (diagonal, vertical, or horizontal). The four corner spaces are wild and count toward all sequences.

Tips and Strategy for Beginners

• Control the center of the board early

• Use One-Eyed Jacks wisely—don't waste them

• Block your opponent’s potential sequences before building your own

• Pay attention to your teammate’s moves (if playing in teams)

For more strategy-driven gameplay, check out How To Play Catan Seafarers Expansion where resource management and player interaction take center stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I place a chip on a space that already has one?

No—unless you're using a One-Eyed Jack to remove it (and it's not part of a completed sequence).

What if I draw a card that has no available matching spaces?

You’re out of luck for that turn. Discard the card and draw a new one.

Final Thoughts

Sequence is one of those timeless games that’s easy to teach but packed with depth and opportunity for clever plays. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight game or something for family gatherings, it's a go-to.

And if you’re building your board game shelf, we recommend diving into How To Play Scattergories next—another modern classic that introduces resource strategy and negotiation.

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