Cribbage games do not always end neatly at the end of a hand. Because points are scored throughout play, a game can finish suddenly — even in the middle of pegging.
This page explains the official cribbage endgame rules, including when the game ends, when scoring stops, and how final points are counted.
For a full overview of the game, start here:
When Does a Cribbage Game End?
A cribbage game ends immediately when a player reaches 121 points.
- The game stops the moment a peg reaches 121
- No further cards are played
- No additional hands or crib scoring occur
It does not matter whose turn it is.
Can the Game End During Pegging?
Yes. This is very common.
If a player reaches 121 points:
- While scoring a 15
- While scoring a 31
- By making a pair or run
- By scoring a Go or last card
The game ends immediately, even if cards remain to be played.
👉 Learn pegging rules: Cribbage Pegging Rules
Can the Game End Before Hands Are Counted?
Yes.
If a player reaches 121 during pegging:
- The opponent does not score their hand
- The dealer does not score the crib
Any remaining scoring opportunities are ignored.
What If Both Players Would Reach 121?
This cannot happen.
Cribbage scoring is sequential:
- Points are scored one event at a time
- The first player to reach 121 wins
- The game stops instantly
Can the Non-Dealer Win Before the Dealer Scores?
Yes — and this happens often.
If the non-dealer reaches 121:
- During pegging, or
- While counting their hand
The dealer does not get to score:
- Their hand
- The crib
This is why pegging and hand order matter.
👉 Scoring order explained: Cribbage Scoring Explained
Endgame and Skunk Rules
Skunk rules are applied after the game ends.
- A skunk does not end the game early
- It is determined only once a player reaches 121
👉 Learn how skunks work: Skunk Rules in Cribbage
Common Endgame Mistakes
Beginners often:
- Assume both hands will be scored
- Forget the game can end mid-hand
- Continue playing after 121 is reached
- Apply skunk rules incorrectly
👉 Avoid errors: Common Cribbage Mistakes
Final Score Recording
Once the game ends:
- The winner is declared
- Final scores are noted
- Optional skunk rules are applied
No additional scoring occurs.
Quick Summary
- The game ends at 121 points
- Scoring stops immediately
- Games can end mid-pegging
- Remaining hands or crib are not scored
- Skunk rules are applied afterward
👉 One-page reference: Cribbage Cheat Sheet
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the game end before the crib is counted?
Yes. If a player reaches 121 earlier.
Does the dealer always get to count the crib?
No. Only if the game has not already ended.
Can players finish the hand for fun?
Yes, but it has no effect on the result.
👉 More answers: Cribbage FAQ