Play Shithead Online
Joker Palace lets you play a Palace-style card game online for free. Whether you know the traditional game as Shithead, Palace, Shed, or Karma, the app offers real-time multiplayer matches with 2–5 players, ranked play, private games, and Joker Chaos effects.
Learn in 30 Seconds
New to the shithead card game? The whole palace card game comes down to three simple moves.
- 1
Get your cards
Everyone starts with 3 hand cards, 3 face-up cards, and 3 hidden face-down cards. Play your hand first, then face-up, then the blind cards.
- 2
Beat the pile
Play a card equal to or higher than the top of the pile. Can't play? You pick up the entire pile.
- 3
Empty your hand to win
First player to shed every card wins — and special cards bend the rules along the way. Don't be the last one holding cards.
Want the full breakdown? Learn the official Joker Palace rules, or compare them with the traditional Shithead and Palace rules.
What Makes Joker Palace Different
Joker Palace combines Chaos of Joker effects, ranked competitive seasons, private games, and real-time multiplayer matchmaking. These are Joker Palace features rather than claims about every other online Palace card game.
Find a Match in Seconds
Jump straight into 2–5 player matches with cross-platform multiplayer — iOS and Android players in the same game. Or sharpen up against AI bots on Easy, Medium, or Hard.
Chaos of Joker Effects
Play a Joker, choose one of three offered effects, and temporarily change which cards everyone can play. The current effect pool is Low Only, No Specials, Primes Only, and Royals Banned.
Climb the Global Leaderboard
Compete in ranked matches across 9 tiers, earn seasonal rewards, and prove you're the best shithead player online. Skill-based matchmaking keeps every game fair.
Private Lobbies, Your Crew
Create a private game and invite friends directly, or add them in-app and send game invites. Everything you love about playing the shithead card game in person — now anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about playing shithead online with Joker Palace.
Do I need to create an account to play?
No. You can start playing immediately without signing up — just download and jump into a match. If you want to save your progress, rank, and cosmetics across devices, you can create an account at any time.
Is Joker Palace free to play?
Yes, Joker Palace is completely free to download and play on both iOS and Android. All game modes, ranked matches, and core features are available at no cost. Optional cosmetic items like avatars and card backs are available, but the game is never pay-to-win.
What platforms is Joker Palace available on?
Joker Palace is available on iOS and Android. Download it free from the App Store or Google Play and start playing in seconds. The game features cross-platform multiplayer, so iOS and Android players compete in the same matches.
How does matchmaking work?
Joker Palace uses skill-based matchmaking to pair you with opponents at a similar level. Below 1M rank points, the SPM system tracks your progression through 9 tiers from Wood to Master. Above 1M points, an ELO rating system ensures competitive, balanced matches at the highest level.
Can I play with friends?
Yes. You can create private games and invite friends directly. Add friends in-app, send game invites, and play together in real-time. You can also practice against AI bots on Easy, Medium, or Hard difficulty.
How long does a typical match take?
Most matches last 3–6 minutes. Each player has a 30-second turn timer to keep the pace fast. With 2–5 players per match, games are quick enough to fit into a short break but strategic enough to stay engaging.