Rules ยท Updated August 3, 2026

How to play Accusation Nation

One player judges each round. The app reveals an accusation, the other players make short defenses or tell relevant stories, and the judge assigns the card to one person. In standard play, that assignment is a negative point; the default game ends when someone reaches -7 points and is declared the loser.

What do you need to play?

You need one compatible iPhone or iPad with Accusation Nation and a group willing to share the device. Only one person needs the app. Choose a setting where everyone can hear and participate without distracting a driver or disrupting others.

How do you set up a game?

  1. Add the participating players in the app.
  2. Agree on boundaries before the first card. Anyone may skip a prompt or opt out without explanation.
  3. Choose the first judge by agreement, random choice, or the person holding the phone.
  4. Choose standard play or Ice Breaker mode and confirm the score target. The standard default is -7 points; the default Ice Breaker target is +7.

What happens during a round?

  1. Reveal the card. The judge reads the accusation aloud.
  2. Hear the defenses. Each non-judge player gets a brief chance to explain why the card does, or does not, fit them.
  3. Make the ruling. The judge assigns the card based on the stories and arguments from that round.
  4. Rotate. Pass the judging role and device so a different player leads the next round.

How does the game end?

In standard play, the player assigned a card receives a negative point, and the first player to reach the chosen negative target loses; the default is -7. In Ice Breaker mode, players argue for the card and work toward a positive target, which defaults to +7. The app allows the target to be changed.

What makes a fair ruling?

A fair judge listens to every eligible player, uses only the current prompt and round discussion, and avoids targeting someone for a sensitive trait or real harm. The ruling is part of the game, not a factual claim about a person.

Keep defenses short so the pace stays lively. If a prompt feels personal, skip it. Do not pressure anyone to disclose private experiences, and do not use the game to isolate, threaten, or embarrass a player.

What should we read next?

Review safe example card concepts, choose a format in the group-size and setting guide, or open the FAQ.