Many players wonder if they must reveal their clue cards to the entire table when responding to a suggestion.
According to the Hasbro Official Rulebook, clue cards must be shown secretly to the player making the suggestion.
Cluedo Instructions, [edition not specified], Page 6
These rules correspond to the UK edition of Cluedo.
Official Rule Breakdown
In Cluedo, when a player makes a suggestion or enquiry, the player to their left must attempt to answer. If that player possesses any of the cards mentioned in the suggestion, they must show one of them to the player who made the suggestion secretly. The rulebook specifies that they should never show more than one card. This ensures that the identity of the cards remains hidden from the other players at the table.
Step-by-Step
- Step 1: A player makes a suggestion involving a suspect, a weapon, and a room.
- Step 2: The player to the left of the suggester checks their hand for the requested cards.
- Step 3: If the player has a matching card, they show exactly one card secretly to the suggester.
- Step 4: If the player does not have the card, they say 'I cannot answer' and the enquiry passes to the next player.
Example Play Situation
Alice suggests that it was Miss Scarlett with the Rope in the Library. Bob, sitting to Alice's left, looks at his cards and sees the Rope. Bob shows the Rope card secretly to Alice only, while the other players remain unaware of which card was shown.
Common Misconceptions
- Showing the card to everyone at the table
- Showing multiple cards to disprove a suggestion
- Thinking the whole table sees the card
Quick Reference
| You Can | You Cannot |
|---|---|
| Show exactly one card to the suggester | Show more than one card to the suggester |
| Keep your own cards secret from others | Show your cards to the entire group |
| Cross off cards on your sheet when seen | Reveal your cards to players who did not make the suggestion |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the official rule for showing cards in Cluedo?
- Cards must be shown secretly to the player who made the suggestion.
- Do I have to show my card to everyone if I can answer?
- No, you only show one card privately to the person asking the question.
- Can I show two cards to disprove a suggestion?
- No, you must only show one card to the player making the suggestion.
- What happens if I don't have any of the cards asked for?
- You simply say 'I cannot answer' and the turn passes to the next player.