How to play Lowball Cribbage
Cribbage, played backwards: every point counts exactly as usual — but the first player pushed to 121 LOSES.
Keep the worst four cards you can, stuff the juicy ones into the dealer’s crib when it isn’t yours, and peg to dodge 15s, pairs, and runs instead of hitting them.
You can’t decline points — the count is the count — so the skill is dealing yourself dead hands while forcing your opponent to score.
Lowball Cribbage strategy tips
- Keep cards that can’t work together: unpaired, spread out, and unable to add to 15. Four even cards are a good start.
- The crib belongs to the dealer, so it is where the good cards go when it isn’t yours — pairs, fives and 15s all count against the dealer.
- When the crib is yours, throw the two cards least likely to connect with anything, and expect your opponent to load it.
- In the pegging you are dodging 15s, 31s, pairs and runs. Play the card that leaves you least likely to be forced into points on the next turn.
Common questions
Is Lowball the same as reverse cribbage?
Yes. Lowball, reverse cribbage, backwards cribbage and losing cribbage are all names for the same idea: normal scoring, but reaching 121 first loses the game.
Can I refuse points?
No. The count is the count — every 15, pair and run you make is pegged whether you want it or not.
Play Lowball Cribbage online
You can play Lowball Cribbage at eCribbage Plus in any browser, on a computer, tablet or phone, with nothing to download. Open a table in the lounge and another player can sit down with you, or look for one already waiting; a free account is all you need.
