🃏 seven in a row

A Japanese card game in which each suit extends a sequence of numbers beginning with 7. 4-player game (1 human + 3 CPU). You can pass up to 3 times. The winner is the player who has played all the cards!

Please start the game.

What is Sevens?

Sevens is a classic Japanese card game playable in your browser against three computer opponents. The objective is to build number sequences in each suit by extending chains from the number 7. By playing strategically and outmaneuvering your CPU competitors, you can empty your hand first to win. This digital version captures the traditional game's strategic depth while providing instant, free gameplay without setup.

How to Use

Start a game and you'll see your hand of cards displayed at the bottom. The game begins by placing any 7 in the four suit piles on the table—the board then opens up. On your turn, extend sequences by placing cards numerically adjacent to existing cards: place 6 or 8 next to a 7, then 5 or 9, and so on. Click cards from your hand to play them. If you cannot play any card, click the draw button to take a card from the deck. Computer opponents take turns automatically. The game continues until one player empties their hand and wins the round.

Use Cases

Sevens works well for several situations:

• Lunch break entertainment—quick rounds take 10-15 minutes, perfect for a mental break at work
• Learning Japanese card game rules—no physical cards needed; the interface makes rules clear
• Practicing strategic thinking—deciding which card to play involves planning several moves ahead
• Solo gaming without a table group—enjoy competitive play anytime without gathering friends

Tips & Insights

Hold higher and lower cards in reserve when possible, playing them only when forced. This maximizes your flexibility later in the game. Watch the cards CPU players are drawing—if they're drawing frequently, they likely lack playable cards. Blocking sequences your opponents need while advancing your own chains accelerates your win. The luck of card distribution varies, so multiple rounds reveal true skill differences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules?

Starting with the 7 of each suit as the base, the numbers 6, 8, 5, 9... and so on are extended to both ends. The winner is the one who has played all the cards.

What is a pass?

If there are no cards to play (or strategically), you can pass. However, if you pass three times in one game, you will be disqualified.

When can we get 7 out?

7 can always be played. At the beginning of the game, only 7 can be played; when 7 is played, the adjacent 6 and 8 can be played.

How does the CPU work?

The CPU automatically plays any card that can be played, using a strategy that gives priority to 7s.

What should I do if I have no playable cards?

If you cannot play any card, you must pass your turn. A pass happens when none of your cards can extend the sequences on the table—you cannot start a new suit without a 7. You can pass multiple times in succession until someone plays a card that creates playable options for you.

How do I win the game?

The first player to empty their hand completely wins. Once you have no cards left, the game ends immediately and you are declared the winner. The other players continue playing to determine second and third place.

Can I play cards in any order I want?

No, you must play valid cards that extend the sequences on the table. For example, if a 7 of hearts is showing, you can only play a 6 or 8 of hearts. The game automatically shows you which cards are playable on your turn.

How difficult is the CPU AI?

The CPU players use strategic algorithms that improve as the game progresses. They remember played cards, prioritize getting rid of high-value cards, and attempt to block your winning moves. The AI difficulty is consistent across all three computer opponents.

Why does the CPU sometimes play slowly?

The CPU players have a deliberate think time to simulate realistic gameplay and avoid instant moves. This pause makes the game feel more natural and gives you time to plan your strategy while waiting for their decisions.

Is there a strategy to win against the CPU?

Yes—focus on building sequences in multiple suits, hold onto low cards that connect to 7s, and watch which cards the CPU plays to predict their hand. Passing strategically when necessary can force the CPU into difficult positions, giving you better control of the game.