Quick answer

Play All But One is a New Rule card that forces you to play all but one card from your hand during your turn. If you started with no cards and only drew one, you draw an extra card. It works in any Fluxx deck, but it's included in Fluxx Special Edition and other recent versions. Use it to empty your hand quickly or set up a big play.

What does the Play All But One card actually say?

The card text reads: 'Play all but 1 of the cards in your hand during your turn. Draw an extra card if you started with none, and only drew one.' That means if you have five cards, you must play four of them. You choose which one to keep. The card is a New Rule, so it stays in play and affects every player until another rule replaces it or the game ends.

When does the extra draw apply?

The extra draw only happens in a specific edge case: you began your turn with zero cards in hand, and your draw phase gave you exactly one card. In that situation, you draw one additional card before playing. This prevents you from being stuck with a single card and no way to play all but one. If you started with any cards, or drew more than one, the extra draw does not apply.

How does it interact with other New Rules?

New Rules stack unless they contradict each other. If another rule changes how many cards you draw or play, resolve the most restrictive instruction first. For example, if a rule says 'Draw 1' and Play All But One says you must play all but one, you still draw only one card, then play zero cards (since you must keep one). If a rule lets you play extra cards, you still must keep one card in hand at the end of your play phase. Always read the cards in play order and apply the latest rule that affects the same action.

Can you play Play All But One in any Fluxx deck?

Yes. This card is designed as a New Rule that works in any Fluxx deck. It was first included in Fluxx Special Edition and later released as a promo card so players could add it to older sets. If you have a Fluxx deck without it, you can still use it as long as you have the card. Just place it in the deck before shuffling.

What are some strategy tips for using Play All But One?

This card rewards players who keep a flexible hand. Since you must play all but one card, you want to avoid being forced to play a card that helps an opponent. Try to keep at least one 'safe' card you don't mind holding, like a Goal or a Keeper you can play later. If you have a card that lets you draw more cards, play it early so you have more options. Also, remember that you choose the order you play your cards, so you can set up combos. For example, play a Rule that changes the goal, then play Keepers that match it. If you're near winning, Play All But One can help you empty your hand and then play the winning card on a later turn.

Does Play All But One work with Drinking Fluxx?

Drinking Fluxx is a standalone adult party version of Fluxx with its own rules and cards. While Play All But One is a generic New Rule that could be added to any Fluxx deck, Drinking Fluxx may have its own rule cards that override or interact with it. If you want to mix them, treat Play All But One as a New Rule and resolve it alongside the existing Drinking Fluxx rules. Just be aware that Drinking Fluxx is designed for adult players and may include drinking penalties, so adjust as needed.

Play All But One FAQ

Do I have to play all but one if I have only one card?

If you have only one card at the start of your play phase, you must play zero cards and keep that one card. The rule says 'play all but 1', so with one card, you play none. You never have to play your last card due to this rule.

What if I have no cards and draw only one?

You draw one extra card, so you'll have two cards. Then you must play one and keep one. The extra draw prevents you from being stuck with a single card.

Can I choose which card to keep?

Yes, you decide which card remains in your hand. You can keep any card you like, including a Keeper or a Goal. Choose strategically to set up your next turn.

Does Play All But One override other play rules?

It adds a restriction: you must play all but one. If another rule says you can play more cards, you still must keep one. If another rule says you play fewer, follow the more restrictive one. Resolve conflicts by following the most limiting instruction.

Is this card legal in tournament play?

Tournament rules vary by organizer. Check with the tournament director before using promo cards. In casual play, it's fine to add. When in doubt, ask before the game starts.

Fluxx products that include or work with this card

  • Play All But One: This is a New Rule card that works in any Fluxx deck. It is included in Fluxx Special Edition and other more recent versions of Fluxx. You can add it to any Fluxx set you own, even if it didn't originally come with the card.
  • Fluxx Special Edition: Fluxx Special Edition is the perfect introduction to the Fluxx line, tailored for new players, and includes the four basic card types with no Creepers, Surprises, or Ungoals. It also includes two Friends and Ice Cream. If you're new to Fluxx, this edition gives you a clean, straightforward experience and includes Play All But One.
  • Drinking Fluxx: Drinking Fluxx is an adult party version of Fluxx with always-changing rules. It's part of the Fully Baked Ideas imprint and you don't need to drink alcohol to play. If you enjoy adult party games, this version offers a different twist, and you can still add Play All But One if you want more chaotic rule changes.