Buzz
For instance, if the starting card is the 10, the dealer's rule must relate to the card's rank and suit. The dealer could establish a rule like this:Robert Abbott introduced this unique card game over 40 years ago. While several variations have emerged, this version, staying true to the original, remains one of the most appealing. Here's a step-by-step guide to playing:
Number of players: A minimum of three
Objective: Discard as many cards as possible by figuring out the rule that dictates the gameplay for the hand.
The cards: A standard 52-card deck is used.
Gameplay: The dealer reveals the top card as the starter and distributes the entire deck to the other players, leaving themselves without any cards. The dealer then formulates a secret rule, which can be simple or complex, dictating which cards players can legally discard onto the starter pile. This rule is hidden until the hand concludes.
During your turn, you must play at least one card onto the discard pile. If your move adheres to the rule, the dealer will say, "Right," and the next player proceeds. If your move violates the rule, the dealer will say, "Wrong," and you must collect all the cards from the discard pile, placing them face up in front of you. These cards will be added to your hand on your next turn.
For example, if the starting card is the 10, the dealer's rule must relate to the card's rank and suit. The dealer might establish a rule such as:
- If the card is even and red, play a heart
- If the card is even and black, play a diamond
- If the card is odd and red, play a spade
- If the card is odd and black, play a club (jack and king are considered odd, queen is even)
Tips: As the dealer, your highest score comes when one player deciphers the rule and outperforms the others. Use your understanding of the players to craft a rule that one might solve faster than the rest.
Here are two rule examples: (1) For a diamond, play a different suit; for a club, play a red card; for a spade, play a black card; for a heart, play a card of the same rank. (2) If the sum of the last two cards is 2-8, play a spade; for 9-12, play a club; for 13-16, play a diamond; for 17 or more, play a heart (face cards count as 10, Ace as 1).
Publications International, Ltd.
Here's a quick reference for some of the card language you will find in this article.
Deal: The act of distributing cards to players; also, the period of play between one deal and the next.
Game: The total points needed to win; also, what defines the conclusion of a game.
Hand: The cards given to a player; also, the period of play between one deal and the next.
For a complete listing of card terminology, click here.
