Many players mistakenly believe the Defuse card simply removes the Exploding Kitten from the game entirely.
According to the Exploding Kittens Official Rulebook, the Defuse card allows you to avoid being eliminated by reinserting the kitten.
Exploding Kittens Official Rules [edition not specified]
These rules correspond to the UK edition of Exploding Kittens.
Official Rule Breakdown
The Defuse card is described as the most powerful card in the game because it is the only card that can save a player from an Exploding Kitten. If a player draws an Exploding Kitten, instead of being eliminated and becoming 'dead', they may play the Defuse card. Once played, the player must take the Exploding Kitten and secretly reinsert it anywhere within the Draw Pile without reordering or viewing the other cards (Exploding Kittens-rules.pdf, [page not specified]).
Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Draw the Exploding Kitten card from the Draw Pile.
- Step 2: Play the Defuse card from your hand.
- Step 3: Take the Exploding Kitten card.
- Step 4: Secretly reinsert the Exploding Kitten into the Draw Pile at any position of your choice.
Example Play Situation
Alice draws an Exploding Kitten card, which would normally end her game. She plays her Defuse card to stay alive and secretly places the Exploding Kitten near the bottom of the Draw Pile. Bob then begins his turn by drawing a card.
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking the Defuse card removes the kitten from the game
- Thinking you must show the other players where you put the kitten
- Thinking you can only use a Defuse card if you have one in your hand
Quick Reference
| You Can | You Cannot |
|---|---|
| You can reinsert the kitten anywhere in the Draw Pile | You cannot view the other cards while reinserting the kitten |
| You can use the Defuse card to stay in the game | You cannot reorder the deck while placing the kitten |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the official rule for using a Defuse card in Exploding Kittens?
- Play the card to avoid exploding and secretly put the kitten back in the Draw Pile.
- Can I show other players where I put the Exploding Kitten?
- No, you must put it back in the Draw Pile secretly without reordering or viewing cards.
- Does the Defuse card remove the Exploding Kitten from the deck?
- No, it simply moves the kitten to a new secret location in the Draw Pile.
- What happens if I don't have a Defuse card when I draw a kitten?
- You explode, you are dead, and you are out of the game.