1Each player puts cards into the crib, an extra hand for the dealer.
2Take turns playing cards, keeping the running total to 31 or less, and score as you go.
3Then score your hand for fifteens, pairs and runs.
4The first to peg 121 points wins.
Questions
Be the first player to score 121 points (or 'peg out'). Points are earned through card combinations during play and in hand scoring. First to 121 points. If the loser hasn't passed 91 points, they're 'skunked' (some count this as a double win).
Standard 52-card deck, 2 players (4-player variant exists). Deal 6 cards each. Each player discards 2 cards to form the 'crib' (a bonus hand for the dealer). Cut for a 'starter' card.
Aim for 15s when discarding to the crib - 5s and 10-value cards pair well. Keep cards close in rank for run potential. Don't give your opponent good crib cards - avoid 5s especially.
Cribbage was invented by Sir John Suckling around 1630 in England. The game spread widely and remains particularly popular in the English-speaking world and Scandinavia.