“5 Alive” is a classic card game also known by other names such as “5-Alive,” “5 Crowns,” or “Phase 10 Twist.” It’s a variation of the traditional Rummy card game and can be played with 2 to 7 players.

Here’s how to play “5 Alive”:

Objective: The objective of the game is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards.

Setup:

Use a standard deck of 52 playing cards (jokers excluded).
Deal each player 10 cards if there are 2 to 4 players. If there are 5 or more players, deal each player 6 cards.
Place the remaining cards face down in the center to form the draw pile. Turn the top card of the draw pile face up to start the discard pile.

Gameplay:

The player to the left of the dealer starts the game and play proceeds clockwise.
On your turn, you must draw one card from the draw pile or the discard pile. If you draw from the discard pile, you must use that card in your hand immediately.
After drawing a card, you must try to lay down a valid combination of cards (a set or a run) from your hand. A set consists of 3 or more cards of the same rank (e.g., three 5s), and a run consists of 3 or more consecutive cards of the same suit (e.g., 4-5-6 of hearts).
Once you’ve laid down a valid combination, you can play as many additional cards from your hand as you like, adding to existing sets or runs on the table.
At the end of your turn, you must discard one card onto the discard pile.
The next player then takes their turn, following the same rules.

Ending the Round:

The round ends when one player manages to get rid of all their cards by laying down valid combinations and discarding their final card.
All other players add up the total value of the cards left in their hands and score penalty points based on the value of the remaining cards.
The round is then scored, and a new round begins with a new deal.

Winning the Game:

The game typically consists of multiple rounds, and players tally their scores after each round.
The player with the lowest score at the end of the predetermined number of rounds (usually 11 rounds) wins the game.

“5 Alive” is a fun and strategic card game that requires both luck and skill. It’s a great game for families and groups of friends to enjoy together.