(In some games, there is no cut at this time.) The Deal The dealer has the right to shuffle last, and presents the cards to the non-dealer for the cut prior to the deal. Thereafter, the turn to deal alternates between the two players, except that the loser of the game deals first if another game is played. The player with the lower card deals the first hand. If both players cut cards of the same rank, each draws again. The Draw, Shuffle and Cutįrom a shuffled pack face down, each player cuts a card, leaving at least four cards at either end of the pack. The DeckĪ Standard Deck of 52 Playing Cards Rank of Cards But Cribbage is basically best played by two people, and the rules that follow are for that number. Or four people can play two against two as partners.