UNO!™

UNO is a card game that works because the rules are so easy that a child can learn them in a minute, yet the game still produces laughter, groans and dramatic comebacks. Each player starts with a hand of cards, and on your turn you play a card that matches the colour or number of the one on top of the pile. The first player to empty their hand wins, as long as they remember to call UNO when one card remains.

The special cards are what make the game exciting. Skip stops the next player, Reverse changes the direction of play, Draw Two forces a player to pick up cards, and the Wild cards let you change the colour. The Wild Draw Four is the most powerful and, in the real rules, can only be played when you have no card of the current colour. The mobile game handles those rules automatically, so arguments about who cheated disappear.

The app lets you play against the computer, with friends online, or in special modes that change the rules. Some of these modes add new cards or house rules that some families already use at home, such as stacking draw cards. There are also tournaments and events that give you rewards for playing regularly, and you can customise your avatar and card styles.

Playing well takes more thought than people expect. Keep a note of what colours opponents avoid, because it tells you which colours they are short of. Hold on to Wild cards for important moments instead of using them early, and try to get rid of high-value action cards before the end. Calling UNO at the right moment, and catching others who forget, remains a small but exciting skill.

The game is great for casual groups, particularly because rounds are short and can be played over a few minutes. It requires an internet connection for online modes, and there is chat and emote functionality that parents may wish to review in the settings. The app is free to play with ads and optional purchases.

One thing families enjoy is that UNO makes room for every age. A younger child can play with a parent helping, while adults can try the stricter online modes. Games also teach useful habits such as paying attention, planning one move ahead and being gracious when a Draw Four lands on you at exactly the wrong time.

Looking for the genuine UNO! app? If you want a friendly, familiar card game that fits into any spare few minutes, UNO is a dependable choice.