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19 Games Like UNO to Deal Into Your Game Night in 2025

by: Karl Hyppolite

Published on Apr 16th 2025

You don’t need a wild card to make game night unforgettable — just stack your deck with games like UNO that deliver the same blend of strategy, chaos and 'Did you really just skip me again?' energy. These fast-paced card games are perfect for families, friend groups and anyone who enjoys a little friendly sabotage disguised as fun. We’ve got a slew of color-matching, card-slapping alternatives that bring fresh twists to the table and keep your game collection from becoming as stale as last week's poker chips.

Some of these games like UNO go beyond just color-matching and number stacking. We’ve got games like UNO for adults that crank up the competition, games like UNO for kids that are easy to learn and quick to play, and even games like UNO online for those who prefer to challenge their crew virtually. It’s time to shuffle things up because if game night is your thing, these options will definitely be your draw four.

Classic Card Games like UNO

The appeal of card games like UNO is their mix of easy-to-learn rules and fun strategies. These classic alternatives keep the fast-paced action while adding unique twists to keep things fresh. If you've worn out your UNO deck or simply crave variety, these games offer the same fun with new rules and gameplay that make game nights exciting.

1. Deal the Drama with Crazy Eights

*Card games like UNO that offer some sort of sneaky strategy always rate well (via Canva)*

If UNO had a cool older cousin, it’d be Crazy Eights. This classic is the blueprint for modern matching games, and it’s all about getting rid of your hand by playing cards that match the number or suit. Add in special cards that reverse turns or force your opponent to draw, and it’s easy to see why it’s still a hit. Consider this the OG of card games like UNO — just as fun, and arguably even sneakier.

2. Reverse Your Luck with Skip-Bo

Skip-Bo may look innocent, but don’t be fooled because this game will have you thinking on your toes. Stack your cards in numerical order while blocking your opponents from doing the same, and watch the competition get intense. It's one of those fun games to play with friends that somehow brings out everyone’s inner perfectionist.

3. Go with an International Alternative: Taki

*Find card games similar to UNO that offer the same element of surprise (via Canva)*

This Israeli card game has gained international popularity with its exciting color-matching features and special action cards. Players match the previous card by color or number while using special cards to skip opponents, reverse the direction, or force others to draw.

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4. Go Old School with Spite and Malice

This two-player showdown (a kind of spinoff of Skip-Bo) pits you against your opponent in a race to clear your pile. Play strategically, sabotage often and get ready to get a little upset. It’s one of those party games for folks who love a little one-on-one showdown with some drama.

Games Like UNO for Adults

Game night doesn't have to end with the same old shuffle. If you love games like UNO but want something with a little more edge, strategy or adult humor, there are plenty of playful options that turn casual competition into laugh-out-loud chaos. These picks go beyond the basics and deliver the kind of energy you need for grown-up game night — wine is optional and smack talk is highly encouraged.

5. Stir Up Strategy with Phase 10

*Card games like UNO should provide the same level of competition (via Flickr; CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)*

Card games like UNO and Phase 10 may share similar DNA but few games have the bite of the real thing. This rummy-style game challenges players to complete 10 unique phases — sets, runs, or combos — before the other team. What’s the catch? You have to complete each phase in order, so getting stuck on Phase 3 while your friends zoom ahead can be frustrating, but also pretty hilarious.

6. Stack the Tension with Exploding Kittens

Don't let the cute name fool you. This game is pure chaos in cute packaging. Each card could either save you or spell disaster, and you'll need a bit of luck and a lot of nerve to make it through. With a mix of luck, betrayal, and calculated risk-taking, this game guarantees a night full of excitement and laughs.

7. Make Enemies with Unstable Unicorns

*Games like UNO will have you questioning who is your friend (via Pinterest)*

Unicorns? Check. Betrayal? Absolutely. This ridiculously fun game starts off cute but quickly spirals into a whirlwind of sabotage. You’ll build a stable, backstab your opponents and exact your sparkly revenge.

8. Get Ruthless with DOS

The sequel to UNO is made for those who think regular matching games are for amateurs. With two piles in play and bonus points for color and number matches, DOS turns up the heat while still feeling familiar.

Fun Games Like UNO for Kids

UNO may reign supreme at the kids' table, but it's far from the only game that gets giggles going. These alternatives also help introduce important skills like taking turns, following rules, and strategic thinking.

9. Grab Some Laughs with Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

*Card games like UNO for kids should encourage kids to strategize (via Pinterest)*

Yes, that is an actual game, and it’s just as goofy as it sounds. Players slap the pile when the spoken word matches the card, but the speed and silliness escalate fast. Expect lots of laughter, a few friendly flubs and wild energy that makes this an easy choice if you’re looking for birthday party activities or rainy day fun.

10. Skip the Boredom with Skip-Bo Junior

This pint-sized version of the classic sequencing game is perfect for young players learning to think ahead. Simple number order turns into a delightful challenge as kids race to clear their decks first. It's a fun way for early elementary-aged kids to practice problem-solving skills.

11. Match the Mayhem with Rat-a-Tat Cat

*Card games should embrace a little friendly competition (via Amazon)*

Quick rounds, memory games, and cats — what’s not to love? Players try to end up with the lowest total in their hand by swapping and spying, making it a strategic yet silly game. It’s perfect for tweens but simple enough to keep younger kids entertained too.

12. Uno Showdown Brings the Drama

UNO's flashy cousin comes with a timer-slapping, card-launching twist. The showdown unit adds suspense and surprise, making this a fun shake-up of the classic that kids can’t get enough of. If they love standard UNO, this one levels up the excitement in a big way.

Games Like UNO Online

Need a quick card battle but no one’s around to play? Games like UNO online bring all the color-matching chaos to your screen, so you can skip the setup and jump straight into the action. Plus, no card shuffling is required.

13. Fire Up UNO on Mobile or Desktop

*Classic games like UNO can also be played online (via Pinterest)*

Sometimes the original hits just right — and luckily, you can play official UNO online with friends or strangers. It’s got themed decks, wild animations and fast-paced matchmaking, making it a go-to for fans who want their classic fix anytime.

14. Hop on Plato

Plato is your digital game room playground, offering a mix of card games (including UNO-inspired ones) with customizable speed settings. It’s perfect for hanging out with friends in private game rooms complete with voice chat, or jumping into fast matchmaking when you’re flying solo.

15. Level Up with Phase 10: World Tour

*Online games can provide just as much fun without needing equipment (via Canva)*

This digital version of the rummy-style card game blends strategy and goal-chasing in colorful, worldwide settings. Complete numbered phases before your opponents and unlock new levels as you go.

16. Brave the Jungle with Karuba

This digital card game has you building paths through a jungle by placing cards in the right spots. The game adds jungle sounds and moving explorer figures that make your adventure come alive. It's as easy to learn as UNO but offers a different kind of fun that's about creating paths instead of matching colors.

Card Games Like UNO With Regular Cards

No special deck? No problem. These clever games like UNO use a standard 52-card deck you probably already have lying around. It’s an easy way to keep the fun rolling without needing anything extra.

17. Mix It Up With Mau

*You can play various games like UNO with a standard deck of cards (via Canva)*

The first rule of Mau is... don’t talk about the rules. You’ll need to figure them out as you play, making it a quirky, evolving game that’s perfect for group play and team building games with coworkers.

18. Slash Your Score in the Golf Card Challenge

Players arrange nine cards in a 3×3 grid and take turns drawing and swapping to create the lowest point value possible. This game challenges both memory and decision-making, as players try to remember card positions after the initial setup while working to improve their hand. The mix of luck and skill keeps things balanced, making it enjoyable for players of all experience levels.

19. Build Strategy with Spite and Malice

*Even classic games can be modified to include competitive elements (via Canva)*

You may also know this game as “competitive solitaire.” Basically, it’s a head-to-head card game that challenges players to be the first to empty their pile by building up shared stacks. It’s full of blocking, racing, and the kind of lighthearted sabotage that UNO fans live for.

Games Like UNO FAQs

What Other Game Is Like UNO?

*There are so many card games like UNO, that you'll be spoiled for choice (via Pinterest)*

Games like UNO, such as Skip-Bo, Phase 10, and Crazy Eights, offer the same matching features, strategy, and playful rivalry. They’re all about quick thinking, a little luck, and that satisfying moment when you leave your friends with a fistful of cards.

What Is the #1 Card Game in the World?

UNO often tops the charts in popularity thanks to its easy-to-learn rules and global appeal. But classics like Poker and Solitaire also dominate depending on the region and setting.

What Is UNO Dare Adults Only?

UNO Dare adds a cheeky twist to the original game with challenge cards that include dares instead of draw cards. The Adults Only version spices it up with more suggestive or hilarious prompts — think truth-or-dare meets game night.

What Is a More Fun Version of UNO?

UNO Flip and UNO Attack are amped-up editions that take the classic chaos to new levels. UNO Flip adds a double-sided deck with nastier penalties, while UNO Attack keeps you guessing with a card launcher that may or may not spit cards your way.

Games like UNO prove that a deck of cards and a good group of friends are all you really need for hours of laughter. Best of all, there are plenty of fun and fast-paced alternatives that capture the same energy and excitement.

For even more fun and entertaining ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!