In Exploding Kittens, what is commonly referred to as the "5 of a kind rule" actually involves playing 5 different cards to gain a significant advantage during the game. Unlike traditional card games where "5 of a kind" implies five identical cards, in Exploding Kittens, this special combo is activated by unique card titles.
Understanding the "5 Different Cards" Combo
This powerful special ability allows players to manipulate the discard pile to their benefit. It's a strategic move that can help you retrieve a crucial card you need or deny one to an opponent.
How to Activate the Combo
To successfully trigger this special action, follow these steps:
- Play Five Cards: You must play exactly five cards from your hand during your turn.
- Different Titles: All five cards you play must have different titles. For example, playing a "Defuse," "Skip," "Attack," "See the Future," and a "Shuffle" card would qualify, as each has a unique name. Cards with identical titles, even if their effects are similar, will not count towards this combo.
The Reward: Claiming a Card from the Discard Pile
Once you play your five different cards, you immediately gain the following ability:
- Choose Any Card: You can go through the entire Discard Pile and choose any single card you desire. This allows for immense strategic depth, as you can retrieve a Defuse card, an Attack card, or any other card that suits your immediate needs.
- Act Quickly: It is crucial to grab the Discard Pile and select your card swiftly. Other players can play a "Nope!" card to cancel your action if you hesitate, preventing you from retrieving your chosen card.
Important Exceptions and Clarifications
There are specific limitations regarding which cards can be involved in this special combo:
- Excluded Cards for Playing: Cards with the titles "Streaking Kittens" and "Exploding Kittens" cannot be used as part of the five different cards you play to activate this special combo. You must use other card types to form your set of five.
By understanding and utilizing the "5 different cards" combo effectively, players can significantly shift the momentum of the game in Exploding Kittens, making it a critical strategic maneuver for survival and victory.
