Learn rummy card games right from the basics. Read through this post to understand the nuances of rummy card games. Once you read this, you will be well-versed with rules, terminology as well as strategies used in different rummy card games. The crash course is divided into sections. The first section deals with the rules and terminology of the rummy card games. Once you get a proper hold on this, you can go on to section 2 where the different strategies used to beat the opponent are explained in great detail. Feel free to post your queries if there are still some doubts lingering in your mind. So, here we go:

Section 1: Rules and Terminology

Dealer: The person distributing the cards in rummy games is referred to as the dealer.

Deck: Deck is the total cards used for playing rummy games.

Picture Cards: Cards that have pictures on them are referred to as picture cards in rummy games. A, K, Q and J of each sign is referred are referred to as picture cards.

Number Cards: The cards that have numbers on them are referred to as number cards. All cards from 2 to 10 in every sign is referred to as number cards.

High Point Cards: The cards in rummy games that have been allocated higher points are referred to as high point cards. All cards from 6 to 10 in all signs are high point cards. Apart from these, the picture cards are also high point cards as they are allocated 10 points each.

Low Point Cards: These are cards in rummy games that are allocated lower points. All cards from 2 to 5 in each sign are referred to as low point cards.

Sequence: A sequence is an arrangement of cards of the same sign in ascending or descending order of their values. A sequence can be made with or without the use of jokers. A sequence that is completed without using a single joker is referred to as a natural or pure sequence. A sequence completed with the use of jokers is referred to as artificial or real sequence.

Meld: The arrangement of cards of different signs but same value together is referred to as a meld. A 5 of spades, hearts and clubs together form a meld.

Life: In rummy games, life is the minimum arrangement of cards upto which a player’s full points are calculated. In a standard rummy variation, a pure sequence and a real sequence together form life.

Joker: The joker in rummy is similar to a wild card. It can be used to replace any other card in a sequence or a meld for completing the same.

Pulled-out Joker: The player next to the dealer pulls a random card from the deck. If he pulls a 3 of spades, all 3s are regarded as pulled out jokers. You can use pulled-out jokers just like other jokers.

Full Hand: If the opponent completes his hand before you complete your life, your hand is regarded as a full hand.

Section 2: Strategies to Beat the Opponent

Just knowing the rules is not enough in rummy card games. You also need to understand the strategies and methods used to beat the opponent in rummy card games. Here we have shared some of these strategies that you may try out:

Try to understand the cards in the opponent’s hand based on the cards he disposed during his turn. You will get a fair idea what sequences and melds the opponent is trying to make.

Some players do not pick cards from the disposed pile till their life is complete. This prevents the opponents from guessing the cards you hold.

If the opponent is disposing low point cards, it could imply that his hand is close to completion. You can choose second drop if your life is not complete at this point.

Observation skills play a vital role in ensuring your victory in rummy card games.