Cabo- Card game Smiling Monster Games

CABO - The cult Card game by Smiling Monster Games

CABO is an easy, fast and incredibly addictive Card game by Smiling Monster Games. It combines memory elements, bluffing, light take-that mechanics and tactical card drawing - perfect for families, game nights and anyone looking for a straightforward yet clever Card game.

Since its launch, CABO has been one of the most popular modern Card games because it is quick to learn, can be played anywhere and every round unfolds differently. Ideal for 2–4 people and perfect as an introduction to modern Board games.

What is the goal in CABO?

The goal of CABO is simple: Have fewer points than your opponents at the end of the round. Sounds simple – but it’s instantly addictive. While you only know some of your own cards, you have to use memory, swapping, observation and clever timing to keep as few points as possible.

How to play CABO - rules explained briefly

CABO is easy to learn and ideal for Players of all ages. The gameplay goes as follows:

• Each person receives 4 face-down cards. You may look at two of them – but only at the very beginning.
• Draw a card from the draw pile or discard pile.
• Decide: Keep the card, swap it, or use its ability.
• Many cards have special abilities such as “look at”, “peek”, “swap” or “swap”.
• As soon as a player believes they have the fewest points, they call “CABO!”.
• After that, each person gets one more turn - then the scores are counted.

A round usually lasts only 8–12 minutes, making the game perfect for several consecutive games.

Why CABO is so popular

CABO is one of the modern classics in the “easy to learn, hard to master” category. That’s what makes it so popular:

• Short & exciting: Ideal for a quick game or long game nights.
• Simple, but not boring: Memory, luck & strategy in the perfect mix.
• Extremely high replay value: Every round feels different.
• Perfect for families: Suitable for ages 8 and up.
• Low price & small box: Ideal for travel or as a gift.

CABO compared with similar games

Many compare CABO to classics such as “Skyjo”, “Schwimmen”, or “Phase 10”. But CABO offers something these games do not:

• Tactical skills that you can use flexibly.
• Bluffing and observation - you need to remember a lot.
• Faster gameplay than typical family Card games.
• More surprises thanks to special cards.

This exact combination makes CABO a modern fan favorite.

Expansions & variants

Smiling Monster Games offers various versions of the game:

• CABO (2nd Edition): revised artwork, better balancing.
• CABO - Deluxe Version: additional Marker, easier overview.
• CABO house rules: Many Players use variants such as open starts, Double-CABO, or Joker rounds.

If desired, CABO can be made playable for larger groups with minor rule adjustments - popular at parties and family gatherings.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Who is CABO suitable for?

CABO is ideal for families, casual Players, Card game enthusiasts, and game groups who want a quick & clever game without a long setup time.

How long does a game take?

A round takes about 8–12 minutes. Playing several games in a row is common - and especially fun.

Is CABO difficult?

No - CABO is easy to learn. Remembering and correctly assessing the cards adds depth, but the rules are quickly understood.

Can you play CABO with two Players?

Yes! CABO works extremely well with two Players and is even one of the most popular 2-player options in the Card game segment.

Do you need the Deluxe version?

The basic version is perfectly sufficient. The Deluxe version is optional and offers higher-quality components.

CABO belongs in every game collection

CABO is one of those Card games you try once and then never put down again. Easy to explain, quick to play, tactical enough to stay exciting round after round - and perfect for almost any group. Whether as a gift, travel game, or family classic: CABO is an absolute insider tip in the Smiling Monster Games range.

You can find more Card games, Board games, and TCG products in our Games category.