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Speed
Speed, also called Spit, is a fast real-time card game for two players with no turns — both play simultaneously. It rewards quick reflexes and pattern recognition over careful strategy. The goal is to be the first to get rid of all your cards.
Speed Rules
The deck is split between the two players. Each sets up draw piles and a face-down hand, with two cards placed face-up in the center as the active piles and two reserve stacks beside them.
Both players flip the center cards at once, then simultaneously play cards from their hands onto either center pile — each card must be one rank higher or lower than the pile's top card, with Aces wrapping to Kings. There are no turns; you play as fast as you can spot legal moves.
When both players are stuck with no legal plays, each flips a new card from the reserve stacks onto the center piles to restart the action. The first player to empty their hand and draw piles wins the round.
Speed Strategy & Tips
Use both hands
Hold cards in one hand and play with the other so you never pause to reorganize. Scanning both center piles at once doubles your options every second.
Spot two-way cards fast
Cards that fit on both center piles give you the most flexibility. Train your eyes to see ranks one above and one below each pile simultaneously.
Don't freeze on a block
If you can't move, immediately get ready to flip the reserve cards rather than staring at your hand. The fastest player to reset usually grabs the lead.
Keep your draw pile feeding your hand
Refill your playing hand the instant you drop below your hand limit. Running out of ready cards while piles are open wastes your speed advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you win at Speed?
Be the first to play every card from your hand and draw pile onto the center piles. Because there are no turns, the fastest reactions win.
Is Speed the same as Spit?
They're nearly identical real-time games with minor setup differences in the number of stock piles. Both involve simultaneously playing cards in ascending or descending order.
Do Aces go high or low in Speed?
Aces wrap around, connecting both to Kings and to Twos. This lets play continue smoothly in either direction across the top and bottom of the deck.
How many players can play Speed?
It's a two-player game at its core. The deck is split evenly between the two competitors, who play at the same time with no taking turns.