After the row cards and starting cards in all four colors have been placed in the middle of the table and players each have a hand of eight cards, the round begins. Players then take turns placing one card next to the matching row card in the middle, ideally with as small a difference as possible because the larger the number gap, the greater the chance that the other players will call out “Cabanga!” and throw cards with the values between the two number cards to the active player. These thrown-in cards are placed on the discard pile, then the active player must draw the same number of cards from the penalty pile.

When a player has no more cards in hand, the round ends and all players count the points on their cards. As soon as a player has collected 18 points, the game ends and the player with the fewest points wins!

The Grand Ball ends after seven rounds with a huge fireworks display and final scoring. Players will gain prestige points for the sumptuous gowns and frock coats they have rented out to guests at the ball, certain employee bonuses, and the festive decorations they have funded. Whoever has collected the most prestige at the end of the game wins.

If a player cannot or chooses not to play, they must pass, drawing a card from a facedown pile; some cards have two values on them, e.g., 1/2 or 5/6, and can be played as either number. Players either add this card to their hand where they wish, discard it, or — calling on the law of the “jungo” — play it immediately as part of a combination from their hand that beats what’s on the table.

If all but one player passes, clear the table, with the player who last played leading to an empty table.

Whoever first empties their hand wins! Alternatively, since the game is short, play multiple rounds, with the first player to win two rounds winning the game.