What is Court of Shadows?
Court of Shadows is an online multiplayer social-deduction card game where players compete for power through bluffing, deception, and strategic manipulation.
Set within a shadowy royal court, each player controls a hidden role with unique abilities. Players may claim actions without revealing their identity, forcing opponents to decide whether to believe the claim or challenge it. Challenges reveal the truth — and the consequences can be devastating.
When a player loses all influence, they are exiled from the game. The last remaining player dominates the court and claims the throne.
How the Game Works
Court of Shadows is a fast-paced online bluffing card game where deception is your greatest weapon. Each match begins with players receiving secret role cards that grant unique abilities. The twist? You can claim any role's power on your turn — whether you actually hold that card or not.
Hidden Roles
Every player starts with two face-down role cards representing their influence in the court. These hidden roles define what actions you can truthfully take — but your opponents don't know what you hold.
- •5 unique roles with distinct powers
- •Each role can attack, defend, or generate resources
- •Your identity remains secret until revealed
Bluffing & Deception
The heart of this social deduction game is the bluff. On your turn, you can claim any role's action — even roles you don't have. Successful bluffs let you use powerful abilities without risk.
- •Claim actions you can't actually perform
- •Build a reputation — then exploit it
- •Read your opponents and spot their lies
Challenges & Blocks
When someone makes a claim, any player can challenge them. The accused must reveal their card — if they were lying, they lose influence. If they were truthful, the challenger pays the price.
- •Challenge suspicious claims to expose liars
- •Block actions using counter-abilities
- •Risk vs. reward on every decision
Player Elimination
Lose both influence cards and you're exiled from the game. The last player with influence remaining wins and claims the throne. Matches are fast — typically 5 to 15 minutes.
- •Losing a challenge costs you one influence
- •Assassinations and usurpations remove influence directly
- •Quick games encourage bold plays
Inspired by classic hidden-role bluffing games — reimagined for seamless online multiplayer.
Play Free Online — No Download Required
Court of Shadows is a free browser game — no app downloads, no installations, no sign-ups required. Open your browser, share a link with friends, and start playing in seconds. It's the fastest way to enjoy a free online card game with real-time multiplayer.
Instant Web Play
Play directly in Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge. No plugins or extensions needed. Works on any modern browser.
Mobile Ready
Fully optimized for phones and tablets. Play on Android now, with iOS coming soon. Touch controls feel natural.
Real Multiplayer
Play with 2-6 players in private rooms or public matchmaking. Invite friends with a simple room code.
Global Leaderboard
Compete for the top spot on the global leaderboard. Your stats are tracked automatically — see how you rank worldwide.
Whether you're at home on your laptop, commuting on your phone, or hanging out with friends on a tablet, Court of Shadows is always ready. No barriers, no friction — just pure online bluffing card game action whenever you want it.
Familiar with Coup? Court of Shadows brings the same hidden-role deduction gameplay to the browser — free, instant, and built for online play. See how it compares →
Sign up free with email or Google. Start playing in under 30 seconds.
Roles of the Court
Five shadowed figures vie for control. Each wields a unique power — but only if they dare to claim it.
Regent
Commands authority and claims wealth without question.
Blade
Strikes from the shadows, eliminating rivals for a price.
Diplomat
Negotiates exchanges and forces the hand of others.
Corsair
Plunders gold from those who cannot defend it.
Widow
Survives assassination with quiet, deadly grace.
The Art of Deception
Every turn is a gambit. Every claim is a risk. Master the dance of truth and lies to outlast your rivals.
Declare Your Action
Claim a role's power — whether you hold that card or not. The court watches in anticipation.
Face the Challenge
Rivals may challenge your claim or attempt to block. Trust no one's word at court.
Truth or Punishment
Reveal your card. If truthful, your challenger suffers. If caught in a lie, you lose influence.
Play Anywhere
The court convenes on any device. Scheme from your throne or conspire on the go.
Desktop Experience
Mobile Experience
Web
Play Instantly
Android
Via Discord
iOS
Coming Soon
Join the Discord
Get the Android app and claim your exclusive Founding Shadow title and avatar — only available to early community members.
These rewards will never be available again once the early access period ends.
Join Discord — Claim Your Rewards