Indian Rummy is also known as 13 Card Rummy, as it utilizes 13 cards per player. Many believe that is game stems from Rummy 500 and Gin Rummy. By discarding and picking cards, players create sequences and sets in order to win. The game also uses a joker that can be used as a substitute to any card that the player desires. 5 ways to understand rummy cards terms and gameplays online. Over there, players from different corners of the world are present who can help their. If you like Rummikub you'll enjoy this Rummy Card Game.
Definition
Rummy is a genre of card games based around matching cards to form sets, involving a perfect blend of strategy and chance. The goal of the classic Rummy is to build up a hand of sets and combinations, and deciding when to end the game, while also minimizing the chances of losing. The game and its complexity may seem complicated, but it is deceptively so.
How to Play Rummy?
Rummy is designed for 2 or more players, and only requires the standard Anglo-American 52-card deck. Despite the large variety of Rummy games, such as the popular Gin Rummy and Indian Rummy, all the way to the classic Rummy game of Mexican Conquian, the rules and ideas follow a similar template, and this guide will give an overall impression of how Rummy plays.
Decks
The deck used varies based on player count and deck-type. For example, the traditional Conquian uses the Spanish 40-card deck, with 2 decks used in the case of 4-players; on the other hand, Gin Rummy uses the standard52-card deck.
Regardless, the different decks can be adapted, as traditional European decks have similar rulesets to the modern 52-card deck. To get the Spanish 40-card deck, the 8, 9 and 10 cards are removed from the standard 52-card deck.
Dealing
Much like other card games, the dealer is determined by card-splitting, and the selected player shuffles the deck. Each player is dealt cards based on the rules of the game. The remaining cards are then set aside, forming the draw pile or stock.
If the Rummy game involves discarding to a discard pile, the top card of the stock is placed face-up, forming the discard pile.
Melds
The goal of Rummy games is to form a hand of melds, aiming to win by removing as many unmatched cards, sometimes known as deadwood, as possible. The allowed melds are sets and sequences. Sets consist of cards of the same rank or value, but from different suits. Sequences are straights, or consecutive cards from the same suit. Examples of the legal melds are shown below:
A straight of 5 cards:
7♠ 8♠ 9♠ 10♠ J♠
A set of 4 cards:
2♠ 2♦ 2♣ 2♥
![Play Play](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/cd/Play-Rummy-with-More-than-Two-People-Step-5.jpg/v4-460px-Play-Rummy-with-More-than-Two-People-Step-5.jpg.webp)
If wild cards or Jokers are included in the deck, they can be used to substitute any card in a combination.
Most variations of Rummy have a minimum number of cards per meld, normally 3. In some variations there are also maximum number limits, withnumbers exceeding 5 being commonly disallowed.
How to Win Rummy?
Winning is normally based on points. For example, in Gin Rummy, the first person to reach 100 points, gathered across multiple rounds, will win.
Turns
The dealer begins the round. Each player draws 1 card at the start of their turn, and generally has the option to draw from the stock or the last revealed card on the discard pile. To end their turn, a player discards a card of their choosing. Turn order is generally in anticlockwise order, though this can differ in non-European Rummy games.
The goal of the game is to improve one's hand by careful discarding.
Calling Rummy
Calling Rummy happens in the rare case where player completes a full hand consisting of only melds. This can only be done with a hand consisting of only melds. This can be done once a draw completes the melds. By discarding one excess card, players are ‘floating' until, the game ends (if the game variant does not allow premature endings).
Showing/Going Out
Showing ends a round, and can be done at any point provided certain conditions are achieved. Normally, the essential prerequisite is the need of at least 2 melds in hand. In games such as Gin Rummy, players can Showat any time, even if there are still unmatched cards.
Certain variations of Rummy also require a player to Show individual melds as they are completed, revealing them onto the board. Showing is also followed by the process of laying off.
Laying Off
Laying off allows other players to play cards into a different player's shown melds. Regardless of whether the showing is done at the end or during the round. An example of laying off is shown in the Hands section of the guide.
In point-based games, laying off allows the players to offset the point gain, and in some cases steal the victory with the right cards in hand.
In Gin Rummy, since unmatched cards are still in hand during the Show, the other players can offload their unmatched cards to the melds of the hands of the showing player.
In 500 Rummy, players are allowed to play their cards to revealed melds of other players if they desire, allowing players to replace weak cards if necessary.
Rummy Rules
Rummy, regardless of variation, will follow a similar set of rules.
Showing
These are all terms describing the process of ending a round. Since certain variations of Rummy allow players to end the round at any point, there are certain rules present to prevent players from prematurely ending the game, making it completely chance-based.
In games allowing the ending call even without full hand melds, players are required to have a minimum of 2 melds in hands, as well as a total unmatched card value (known as deadwood value) of less than 10. This is also necessary since these games are scored based on the difference in deadwood values.
In games only allowing the end call with a completed hand, players will generally be required to reveal their melds in the preceding turn, giving other players the opportunity to lay off cards.
Discarding
Rummy discard rules require players to cards at the end of their turns, ensuring that they always have the same number of cards outside of their turns. Discarded cards in the pile can be drawn by different players ifit is at the top. Players can play cards into the revealed melds of the forfeit player.
Melding
Melds in Rummy variations have a minimum of 3 cards, and a maximum value that differs from variation to variation.
Declaring Rummy
Rummy is a rare occasion where a player manages to get a full hand consisting of only melds. In some variations, players can only call Rummywhen they have not shown any other melds previously.
Rules Summarized
In conclusion, the general Rummy rules are:
- Dealer is determined via deck splitting.
- Each player is dealt a number of cards as required by the game.
- The remaining cards form the stock, and the first card is revealed, forming the discard pile.
- Each player takes their turn by drawing a card from the stock or discard pile, and discarding a card at the end of their turn.
- Players can steal discards, if allowed by the game.
- Once a player is satisfied with his/her hand, they can end the game by Showing their hand. (This differs from game to game).
- Scoring is done, and the winner becomes the dealer of the next round.
- The first player to achieve the winning conditions will become the victor.
Scoring and Points
Rummy scoring is based on the values of unmatched cards. In general, this is based on the difference of value. The values of each card rank is shown below:
- 2 – 10: Face Value
- 10 – K: 10 points
- Ace: 1 point
- Joker: 20 points (when included)
In games allowing the round to end at any time, the score is awarded to the winning player with the lowest unmatched card sum based on the differences with the other players. Examples are Gin Rummy, where theresponding players can have the chance to steal the win by Laying Off.
Most game types will end once a player reaches the point threshold.
Hands Examples
Rummy hands are focused on ending the game with a satisfactory hand, which, depending on game rules, will either consist entirely, or mostly of melds. Melds include 3 or more cards, and include runs and sets. Examples are shown below: A straight of 5 cards:
7♠ 8♠ 9♠ 10♠ J♠
A set of 4 cards:
2♠ 2♦ 2♣ 2♥
Illegal set of 2 cards (below the minimum of 3 cards per meld):
7♦ 7♣
Incomplete Hand and Laying Off
An example hand from the game of Gin Rummy and the layoff phase is shown below. Player 1 calls for the round end.
Player 1 clearly wins via score, but player 2 can lay off their J♥ and 7♥ to the first meld in Player 1's hand. This results in:
It can be observed that Player 2 now has less deadwood than Player 1. Player 2 is awarded the difference of 4 points.
Complete Hand and Laying Off
In games like Conquian where a complete hand is required to end a round, the scores are still counted similarly. In this case, Player 1 has a complete hand and calls for the round to end.
In this case, Player 2 can lay off their 4♥ and 7♦ cards,resulting in the reduced score for Player 1.
Hence, Player 1 is awarded 4 points for their victory.
Strategy Tips
- The keys to Rummy strategy are to know when to end the round, especially in those variations allowing incomplete hands.
- Discard carefully. A discarded card can be used by another player to complete melds, whereas if it is still in hand, it can be used to complete melds by laying off.
- Discard pile draws are arguably better, since you know for certain what you can get.
- You do not need to end the round immediately when you can. Improving your hand can help prevent lay offs and stolen wins.
- Counting cards is important. While this skill is difficult, it can help in winning all forms of card games.
- Sets are easier to form than runs. Discard accordingly.
Variations
500 Rummy
The American variation of Rummy, this game is unique as discards can only be taken to form melds, which are subsequently revealed and set aside. This plays somewhat similarly to Mahjong.
Canasta
A classic variation on 500 Rummy, players attempt to make sets using 7 cards. This game is played in partnerships of 2.
Conquian
The originator of the Rummy-playstyle. Conquian is of Mexican origin and uses the 40-card deck. Players use cards from other melds to form newer melds.
Contract Rummy
Sometimes known as Combination Rummy, this game goes until a player 'goes out', which is when a player can discard the final card in their hand. This adds a layer of complexity, as players cannot discard haphazardly.
German Rummy
Popular in Germany and Austria, each player plays to meld all their cards, with no overly complex rules, making it an easy-to-earn game.
Gin Rummy
The most popular Rummy variation. Designed for 2 players, each player draws and discards until they have a satisfactory hand, where they then end the round by calling for an end.
Indian Rummy
Popular in India, Indian Rummy combines rules from 500 Rummy and Gin Rummy to make a fast-paced game. The draw of this variation is the focus on skill, due to laws of the country, hence the massive online popularity of this game-type.
Liverpool Rummy
A variation of Rummy similar to Contract Rummy, with added rulesthat allow a player to affect the scoring by calling 'Liverpool'.
Royal/Michigan Rummy
A merger between aspects of Poker and Rummy, this game focuses on the gambling aspect with bids, while following similar rules of 500 Rummy.
Shanghai Rummy
Sometimes known as California Rummy, and characterized by the special action of 'buying'. These are the option of stealing the discard out of order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play Rummy online, free against the computer?
Yes, there are many Rummy simulators available online, and you don't need to play with real players if you do not want to.
When can you call Rummy?
Rummy can be called when a player has not shown any melds previously.
What is floating in Rummy?
When a player has melded all cards, and they do not have a discard to make, they float, which means they draw from the stock and immediately discard the same card.
What happens in Rummy when the deck runs out?
When the deck runs out, depending on the game variation, the round is deemed void or the player with the most melds made will win.
How to count cards in Rummy?
Counting cards can be done using estimation and memory. To practice, once a card has been revealed, mark it down on a piece of paper.
Do you have to discard to go out in Rummy?
Yes, once you've gone out. You either end the round or float, depending on the game mode.
How to Play Rummy: A Beginners Guide To Play 13 Cards Indian Rummy
Now, if you've always wanted to get in on the exhilarating rummy action, but didn't know quite how to play rummy, what the game was all about, or indeed what the rules and object of the game was, then you've come to the right place, for we're here to answer all these questions and more for you. After you go through this simple and easy Indian rummy guide, you would be well equipped to get right into the heart of the action, and even win. So let's get started with this 13 card rummy guide.
The objective of the game
Put very simply and succinctly, the objective of the game of Indian rummy is to create sequences and sets from the cards you hold in your hand. (We will get into the rules of the game later on in this page.) Creating valid sequences and sets faster than any of your opponents gives you a better chance of winning the game.
Fundamentals of rummy
Before we go headlong into this guide on how to play Indian rummy, and before we get into the intricacies and nuances of the game, it's important that you understand some basics and fundamentals of rummy first. Here they are:
- Rummy is a game played between anywhere from two to six players.
- Indian rummy is played with 2 deck of cards with 13 cards distributed to each player.
- The required sequence of cards, as prescribed by the rules of the game should follow this strict order or 'sequence' - Ace, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen and King.
- The value of ‘Face cards' i.e., the Jack, the King and the Queen is 10 points each.
- The value of an Ace card is 10 points when making sets.
- Number cards are worth the same number of points as the number printed on them.
For example:
i. 6♥ is worth 6 points
ii. 7♦ is worth 7 points - When forming sequences, an Ace can be considered to be ‘1' or a face card.
- A sequence is a group of three or four consecutive cards (as described in point 2), but these cards should all be from the same suit.
Examples of valid sequences:
i. 6♦ 7♦ 8♦ 9♦
ii. Ace♣ King♣ Queen♣ Jack♣ - A set is made up of three or four cards from different suits, but of the same value or ‘face card'.
- Examples of valid sets:
i. 8♦ 8♥ 8♣ 8♠
ii. Queen♣ Queen♦ Queen♥ - Jokers: When players play rummy with Jokers, a joker can be used as a substitute for another card and the players can use them in place of any other cards to form a set or sequence.
- There are two kinds of Jokers:
i. Wild Joker: This is simply a random card chosen by the players from the closed deck, and this card is deemed to be the Wild Joker for that game.
ii. Printed Jokers: Jokers that have ‘Joker' printed on them from the packs of cards - Example of a valid sequence with a Joker:
5♦ 6♦ Joker 8♦ (Joker used in place of 7♦) Example of a valid set with a Joker: 6♣ 6♦ 6♥ Joker (Joker used in place of 6♠) 1. Please note that these rules apply to both Printed and Wild jokers
2. Jokers cannot be used to make Impure sequences, but not to form Pure sequences - The 'dealer',i.e., the player responsible for dealing the cards is chosen at random at the start of the game, and each player will be given a chance to be the dealer for each subsequent game.
![Different Different](https://cdn.architecturendesign.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/photo-decor-21.jpg)
How to play rummy
Now that we've clearly understand the fundamentals of the game, let's get into the rules of the game and tell you how to play rummy! So here we go!
- To begin with, the packs of cards are shuffled (number of packs is determined by the number of players involved - look at point ‘b' above).
- The dealer then proceeds to deal 13 cards to each player in a cyclical motion.
- A ‘closed deck', consisting of the remaining cards after all players are dealt their 13 cards each, is placed face down on the table and known as the closed deck.
- The game of rummy begins with one card placed in the open deck and a card selected at random as the designated or selected wild joker for the game. The cards in the open deck are placed ‘face up'.
- Once the cards are dealt, each player in the prescribed order, can either draw a card (pick up a card) from the closed deck and discard one of their own cards to the open deck.
- The player drawing the card can choose one from the open deck, where he can see the card he's drawing, or one from the closed deck where the cards are turned face down
- Every time a player picks a card from either the closed or open deck, he must discard one of the cards in his hand to the open deck.
- This ‘drawing and dropping' of cards continues, till a player forms valid sequences and sets and ‘shows' or ‘declares' this to the other players by showing all the other players his sequences and sets. After this, the declarer should wait for the other players to do the same. A valid declaration or show garners zero points
- For each Rummy game, a random card selected from the deck serves as the Card Joker. If by chance a printed Joker is picked during the process then the Ace cards of all the suits serve as the Card Joker for that particular game.
- A valid declaration or show should consist of two sequences (of which one must be pure) and remaining cards can be arranged as sets.
- A valid sequence of not less than three cards from the same suit, but without a joker - referred to a Pure Sequence.
- A valid sequence of not less than three cards from the same suit with or without a joker or jokers. If jokers are used, this is referred to as an Impure sequence.
How points are calculated
- The aim of the game is to get fewer points than all of your opponents, or no points at all.
- The winner of the game is the player who has no points or zero points. Therefore, a valid declaration or show garners zero points.
- The second player to declare with a valid declaration will earn the player two points.
- As previously explained, all the face cards and Aces will earn a player 10 points. Jokers of both kinds (Wild and Printed) are worth zero points, while all the other cards will earn a player the same number of points as the number printed on the card.
- If a losing player does not have two sequences including a Pure sequence, then all of his or her cards are added up to determine his or her score - the maximum points in this case is capped at 80.
- However, if a losing player does have two or more sequences, as well as a pure sequence, only the cards out of the sequences will be considered when his or her score is being calculated.
- A wrong declaration or invalid show will earn player 80 points.
- If a player is dissatisfied with the cards he or she is dealt, they can choose to ‘drop', that is, concede the game at their first turn before drawing a card. This action is called a First Drop and will earn a player 20 points, and he or she ‘drops out' and does not participate in that game.
- Any drop after the First Drop is called a Middle Drop and will earn a player 40 points.
- A player will get 40 points if they leave the table after drawing a card from the closed deck, and this action will considered as a Middle Drop. However, if the player drops out without seeing the card, it will considered as a First Drop and will only earn them 20 points.
- Points for dropping based on the type of rummy:
101 Pool Rummy:- 20 points prior to drawing a card known as the ‘First Drop'.
- 40 Points after drawing a card known as a ‘Middle Drop
201 Pool Rummy- 25 points prior to drawing a card known as the ‘First Drop'.
- 50 Points after drawing a card known as a ‘Middle Drop
Types of sequences
Any guide on how to play 13 cards rummy online must include a clear explanation as to what a sequence is. As mentioned before, there are two types of sequences, they are Pure Sequences and Impure sequences.
Pure sequences: : A consecutive group of three or more cards of the same suit, created without the use of a printed or wild joker. Here are examples of Pure Sequences:
Example 1:
7♠ 8♠ 9♠
As you will notice from Example 1 above, there is a consecutive valid sequence formed by cards of the same suit. Also, the sequence does not contain a joker
Example 2:
Ace♣ 2♣ 3♣ 4♣
From Example 2, you will notice once again that there is a valid sequence of cards from the same suit as dictated by the rules of the game, also no jokers are used. In this example you will also notice that sequences need not be only three cards, but could involve four cards as well.
Impure sequences: This sequence can be defined as a group of consecutive cards of the same suit, but which is only possible with the use of a joker (printed or wild joker). Let's look at a couple of examples of Impure sequences.
Example 1
4♦ 5♦ Joker 7♦
In Example 1, you will notice that either the printed joker or the wild joker has been used to form a valid sequence of the Diamond suit beginning from 4♦ and extending upwards to the 7♦. The joker has been used in place of the missing 6♦.
Example 2
King♠ Queen♠ Jack♠ Joker
In Example 2, the joker has been used to complete a sequence from the Spades suit, standing in place of the 10♠.
Valid Sets
A how to play card rummy guide must also clearly explain what a valid rummy set is. Therefore, a set can be defined as a group of cards (Three or Four cards) of the same value but from different suits. A valid set however, should not contain two or more cards of the same suit. Please note however that a set should not have more than four cards, and a joker can be used to complete a valid set.
Example 1
King♣ King♦ King♥ King♠
In Example 1, you will notice that the cards used to form the set are of the same face value or printed value i.e., the King. You will also notice that each card in this set belongs to different suits.
Example 2
Joker 7♦ 7♥ 7♠
![See full list on cardgames.io See full list on cardgames.io](https://rummydangal.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/niaoqylxzb.jpg?w=1000)
If wild cards or Jokers are included in the deck, they can be used to substitute any card in a combination.
Most variations of Rummy have a minimum number of cards per meld, normally 3. In some variations there are also maximum number limits, withnumbers exceeding 5 being commonly disallowed.
How to Win Rummy?
Winning is normally based on points. For example, in Gin Rummy, the first person to reach 100 points, gathered across multiple rounds, will win.
Turns
The dealer begins the round. Each player draws 1 card at the start of their turn, and generally has the option to draw from the stock or the last revealed card on the discard pile. To end their turn, a player discards a card of their choosing. Turn order is generally in anticlockwise order, though this can differ in non-European Rummy games.
The goal of the game is to improve one's hand by careful discarding.
Calling Rummy
Calling Rummy happens in the rare case where player completes a full hand consisting of only melds. This can only be done with a hand consisting of only melds. This can be done once a draw completes the melds. By discarding one excess card, players are ‘floating' until, the game ends (if the game variant does not allow premature endings).
Showing/Going Out
Showing ends a round, and can be done at any point provided certain conditions are achieved. Normally, the essential prerequisite is the need of at least 2 melds in hand. In games such as Gin Rummy, players can Showat any time, even if there are still unmatched cards.
Certain variations of Rummy also require a player to Show individual melds as they are completed, revealing them onto the board. Showing is also followed by the process of laying off.
Laying Off
Laying off allows other players to play cards into a different player's shown melds. Regardless of whether the showing is done at the end or during the round. An example of laying off is shown in the Hands section of the guide.
In point-based games, laying off allows the players to offset the point gain, and in some cases steal the victory with the right cards in hand.
In Gin Rummy, since unmatched cards are still in hand during the Show, the other players can offload their unmatched cards to the melds of the hands of the showing player.
In 500 Rummy, players are allowed to play their cards to revealed melds of other players if they desire, allowing players to replace weak cards if necessary.
Rummy Rules
Rummy, regardless of variation, will follow a similar set of rules.
Showing
These are all terms describing the process of ending a round. Since certain variations of Rummy allow players to end the round at any point, there are certain rules present to prevent players from prematurely ending the game, making it completely chance-based.
In games allowing the ending call even without full hand melds, players are required to have a minimum of 2 melds in hands, as well as a total unmatched card value (known as deadwood value) of less than 10. This is also necessary since these games are scored based on the difference in deadwood values.
In games only allowing the end call with a completed hand, players will generally be required to reveal their melds in the preceding turn, giving other players the opportunity to lay off cards.
Discarding
Rummy discard rules require players to cards at the end of their turns, ensuring that they always have the same number of cards outside of their turns. Discarded cards in the pile can be drawn by different players ifit is at the top. Players can play cards into the revealed melds of the forfeit player.
Melding
Melds in Rummy variations have a minimum of 3 cards, and a maximum value that differs from variation to variation.
Declaring Rummy
Rummy is a rare occasion where a player manages to get a full hand consisting of only melds. In some variations, players can only call Rummywhen they have not shown any other melds previously.
Rules Summarized
In conclusion, the general Rummy rules are:
- Dealer is determined via deck splitting.
- Each player is dealt a number of cards as required by the game.
- The remaining cards form the stock, and the first card is revealed, forming the discard pile.
- Each player takes their turn by drawing a card from the stock or discard pile, and discarding a card at the end of their turn.
- Players can steal discards, if allowed by the game.
- Once a player is satisfied with his/her hand, they can end the game by Showing their hand. (This differs from game to game).
- Scoring is done, and the winner becomes the dealer of the next round.
- The first player to achieve the winning conditions will become the victor.
Scoring and Points
Rummy scoring is based on the values of unmatched cards. In general, this is based on the difference of value. The values of each card rank is shown below:
- 2 – 10: Face Value
- 10 – K: 10 points
- Ace: 1 point
- Joker: 20 points (when included)
In games allowing the round to end at any time, the score is awarded to the winning player with the lowest unmatched card sum based on the differences with the other players. Examples are Gin Rummy, where theresponding players can have the chance to steal the win by Laying Off.
Most game types will end once a player reaches the point threshold.
Hands Examples
Rummy hands are focused on ending the game with a satisfactory hand, which, depending on game rules, will either consist entirely, or mostly of melds. Melds include 3 or more cards, and include runs and sets. Examples are shown below: A straight of 5 cards:
7♠ 8♠ 9♠ 10♠ J♠
A set of 4 cards:
2♠ 2♦ 2♣ 2♥
Illegal set of 2 cards (below the minimum of 3 cards per meld):
7♦ 7♣
Incomplete Hand and Laying Off
An example hand from the game of Gin Rummy and the layoff phase is shown below. Player 1 calls for the round end.
Player 1 clearly wins via score, but player 2 can lay off their J♥ and 7♥ to the first meld in Player 1's hand. This results in:
It can be observed that Player 2 now has less deadwood than Player 1. Player 2 is awarded the difference of 4 points.
Complete Hand and Laying Off
In games like Conquian where a complete hand is required to end a round, the scores are still counted similarly. In this case, Player 1 has a complete hand and calls for the round to end.
In this case, Player 2 can lay off their 4♥ and 7♦ cards,resulting in the reduced score for Player 1.
Hence, Player 1 is awarded 4 points for their victory.
Strategy Tips
- The keys to Rummy strategy are to know when to end the round, especially in those variations allowing incomplete hands.
- Discard carefully. A discarded card can be used by another player to complete melds, whereas if it is still in hand, it can be used to complete melds by laying off.
- Discard pile draws are arguably better, since you know for certain what you can get.
- You do not need to end the round immediately when you can. Improving your hand can help prevent lay offs and stolen wins.
- Counting cards is important. While this skill is difficult, it can help in winning all forms of card games.
- Sets are easier to form than runs. Discard accordingly.
Variations
500 Rummy
The American variation of Rummy, this game is unique as discards can only be taken to form melds, which are subsequently revealed and set aside. This plays somewhat similarly to Mahjong.
Canasta
A classic variation on 500 Rummy, players attempt to make sets using 7 cards. This game is played in partnerships of 2.
Conquian
The originator of the Rummy-playstyle. Conquian is of Mexican origin and uses the 40-card deck. Players use cards from other melds to form newer melds.
Contract Rummy
Sometimes known as Combination Rummy, this game goes until a player 'goes out', which is when a player can discard the final card in their hand. This adds a layer of complexity, as players cannot discard haphazardly.
German Rummy
Popular in Germany and Austria, each player plays to meld all their cards, with no overly complex rules, making it an easy-to-earn game.
Gin Rummy
The most popular Rummy variation. Designed for 2 players, each player draws and discards until they have a satisfactory hand, where they then end the round by calling for an end.
Indian Rummy
Popular in India, Indian Rummy combines rules from 500 Rummy and Gin Rummy to make a fast-paced game. The draw of this variation is the focus on skill, due to laws of the country, hence the massive online popularity of this game-type.
Liverpool Rummy
A variation of Rummy similar to Contract Rummy, with added rulesthat allow a player to affect the scoring by calling 'Liverpool'.
Royal/Michigan Rummy
A merger between aspects of Poker and Rummy, this game focuses on the gambling aspect with bids, while following similar rules of 500 Rummy.
Shanghai Rummy
Sometimes known as California Rummy, and characterized by the special action of 'buying'. These are the option of stealing the discard out of order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play Rummy online, free against the computer?
Yes, there are many Rummy simulators available online, and you don't need to play with real players if you do not want to.
When can you call Rummy?
Rummy can be called when a player has not shown any melds previously.
What is floating in Rummy?
When a player has melded all cards, and they do not have a discard to make, they float, which means they draw from the stock and immediately discard the same card.
What happens in Rummy when the deck runs out?
When the deck runs out, depending on the game variation, the round is deemed void or the player with the most melds made will win.
How to count cards in Rummy?
Counting cards can be done using estimation and memory. To practice, once a card has been revealed, mark it down on a piece of paper.
Do you have to discard to go out in Rummy?
Yes, once you've gone out. You either end the round or float, depending on the game mode.
How to Play Rummy: A Beginners Guide To Play 13 Cards Indian Rummy
Now, if you've always wanted to get in on the exhilarating rummy action, but didn't know quite how to play rummy, what the game was all about, or indeed what the rules and object of the game was, then you've come to the right place, for we're here to answer all these questions and more for you. After you go through this simple and easy Indian rummy guide, you would be well equipped to get right into the heart of the action, and even win. So let's get started with this 13 card rummy guide.
The objective of the game
Put very simply and succinctly, the objective of the game of Indian rummy is to create sequences and sets from the cards you hold in your hand. (We will get into the rules of the game later on in this page.) Creating valid sequences and sets faster than any of your opponents gives you a better chance of winning the game.
Fundamentals of rummy
Before we go headlong into this guide on how to play Indian rummy, and before we get into the intricacies and nuances of the game, it's important that you understand some basics and fundamentals of rummy first. Here they are:
- Rummy is a game played between anywhere from two to six players.
- Indian rummy is played with 2 deck of cards with 13 cards distributed to each player.
- The required sequence of cards, as prescribed by the rules of the game should follow this strict order or 'sequence' - Ace, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen and King.
- The value of ‘Face cards' i.e., the Jack, the King and the Queen is 10 points each.
- The value of an Ace card is 10 points when making sets.
- Number cards are worth the same number of points as the number printed on them.
For example:
i. 6♥ is worth 6 points
ii. 7♦ is worth 7 points - When forming sequences, an Ace can be considered to be ‘1' or a face card.
- A sequence is a group of three or four consecutive cards (as described in point 2), but these cards should all be from the same suit.
Examples of valid sequences:
i. 6♦ 7♦ 8♦ 9♦
ii. Ace♣ King♣ Queen♣ Jack♣ - A set is made up of three or four cards from different suits, but of the same value or ‘face card'.
- Examples of valid sets:
i. 8♦ 8♥ 8♣ 8♠
ii. Queen♣ Queen♦ Queen♥ - Jokers: When players play rummy with Jokers, a joker can be used as a substitute for another card and the players can use them in place of any other cards to form a set or sequence.
- There are two kinds of Jokers:
i. Wild Joker: This is simply a random card chosen by the players from the closed deck, and this card is deemed to be the Wild Joker for that game.
ii. Printed Jokers: Jokers that have ‘Joker' printed on them from the packs of cards - Example of a valid sequence with a Joker:
5♦ 6♦ Joker 8♦ (Joker used in place of 7♦) Example of a valid set with a Joker: 6♣ 6♦ 6♥ Joker (Joker used in place of 6♠) 1. Please note that these rules apply to both Printed and Wild jokers
2. Jokers cannot be used to make Impure sequences, but not to form Pure sequences - The 'dealer',i.e., the player responsible for dealing the cards is chosen at random at the start of the game, and each player will be given a chance to be the dealer for each subsequent game.
How to play rummy
Now that we've clearly understand the fundamentals of the game, let's get into the rules of the game and tell you how to play rummy! So here we go!
- To begin with, the packs of cards are shuffled (number of packs is determined by the number of players involved - look at point ‘b' above).
- The dealer then proceeds to deal 13 cards to each player in a cyclical motion.
- A ‘closed deck', consisting of the remaining cards after all players are dealt their 13 cards each, is placed face down on the table and known as the closed deck.
- The game of rummy begins with one card placed in the open deck and a card selected at random as the designated or selected wild joker for the game. The cards in the open deck are placed ‘face up'.
- Once the cards are dealt, each player in the prescribed order, can either draw a card (pick up a card) from the closed deck and discard one of their own cards to the open deck.
- The player drawing the card can choose one from the open deck, where he can see the card he's drawing, or one from the closed deck where the cards are turned face down
- Every time a player picks a card from either the closed or open deck, he must discard one of the cards in his hand to the open deck.
- This ‘drawing and dropping' of cards continues, till a player forms valid sequences and sets and ‘shows' or ‘declares' this to the other players by showing all the other players his sequences and sets. After this, the declarer should wait for the other players to do the same. A valid declaration or show garners zero points
- For each Rummy game, a random card selected from the deck serves as the Card Joker. If by chance a printed Joker is picked during the process then the Ace cards of all the suits serve as the Card Joker for that particular game.
- A valid declaration or show should consist of two sequences (of which one must be pure) and remaining cards can be arranged as sets.
- A valid sequence of not less than three cards from the same suit, but without a joker - referred to a Pure Sequence.
- A valid sequence of not less than three cards from the same suit with or without a joker or jokers. If jokers are used, this is referred to as an Impure sequence.
How points are calculated
- The aim of the game is to get fewer points than all of your opponents, or no points at all.
- The winner of the game is the player who has no points or zero points. Therefore, a valid declaration or show garners zero points.
- The second player to declare with a valid declaration will earn the player two points.
- As previously explained, all the face cards and Aces will earn a player 10 points. Jokers of both kinds (Wild and Printed) are worth zero points, while all the other cards will earn a player the same number of points as the number printed on the card.
- If a losing player does not have two sequences including a Pure sequence, then all of his or her cards are added up to determine his or her score - the maximum points in this case is capped at 80.
- However, if a losing player does have two or more sequences, as well as a pure sequence, only the cards out of the sequences will be considered when his or her score is being calculated.
- A wrong declaration or invalid show will earn player 80 points.
- If a player is dissatisfied with the cards he or she is dealt, they can choose to ‘drop', that is, concede the game at their first turn before drawing a card. This action is called a First Drop and will earn a player 20 points, and he or she ‘drops out' and does not participate in that game.
- Any drop after the First Drop is called a Middle Drop and will earn a player 40 points.
- A player will get 40 points if they leave the table after drawing a card from the closed deck, and this action will considered as a Middle Drop. However, if the player drops out without seeing the card, it will considered as a First Drop and will only earn them 20 points.
- Points for dropping based on the type of rummy:
101 Pool Rummy:- 20 points prior to drawing a card known as the ‘First Drop'.
- 40 Points after drawing a card known as a ‘Middle Drop
201 Pool Rummy- 25 points prior to drawing a card known as the ‘First Drop'.
- 50 Points after drawing a card known as a ‘Middle Drop
Types of sequences
Any guide on how to play 13 cards rummy online must include a clear explanation as to what a sequence is. As mentioned before, there are two types of sequences, they are Pure Sequences and Impure sequences.
Pure sequences: : A consecutive group of three or more cards of the same suit, created without the use of a printed or wild joker. Here are examples of Pure Sequences:
Example 1:
7♠ 8♠ 9♠
As you will notice from Example 1 above, there is a consecutive valid sequence formed by cards of the same suit. Also, the sequence does not contain a joker
Example 2:
Ace♣ 2♣ 3♣ 4♣
From Example 2, you will notice once again that there is a valid sequence of cards from the same suit as dictated by the rules of the game, also no jokers are used. In this example you will also notice that sequences need not be only three cards, but could involve four cards as well.
Impure sequences: This sequence can be defined as a group of consecutive cards of the same suit, but which is only possible with the use of a joker (printed or wild joker). Let's look at a couple of examples of Impure sequences.
Example 1
4♦ 5♦ Joker 7♦
In Example 1, you will notice that either the printed joker or the wild joker has been used to form a valid sequence of the Diamond suit beginning from 4♦ and extending upwards to the 7♦. The joker has been used in place of the missing 6♦.
Example 2
King♠ Queen♠ Jack♠ Joker
In Example 2, the joker has been used to complete a sequence from the Spades suit, standing in place of the 10♠.
Valid Sets
A how to play card rummy guide must also clearly explain what a valid rummy set is. Therefore, a set can be defined as a group of cards (Three or Four cards) of the same value but from different suits. A valid set however, should not contain two or more cards of the same suit. Please note however that a set should not have more than four cards, and a joker can be used to complete a valid set.
Example 1
King♣ King♦ King♥ King♠
In Example 1, you will notice that the cards used to form the set are of the same face value or printed value i.e., the King. You will also notice that each card in this set belongs to different suits.
Example 2
Joker 7♦ 7♥ 7♠
In Example 2, a joker has been used in place of the 7♣ to complete a valid set of four cards. You will notice that the cards in the set have the same face value, but belong to different suits.
Invalid Sets
A set is said to be invalid if two or more cards of the same suit are used to form the set of three or four cards. Let's look at examples of invalid sets:
Example 1
4♠ 4♦ 4♥ 4♠
From Example 1, you can clearly see that even though the set has been formed by cards of the same face value or the same printed value, the card of the ♠ suit has been used twice, and therefore it is considered as an invalid set.
Example 2
Queen♣ Queen♦ Queen♥ Queen♦
In Example 2, again you will notice that even though each card is of the same face value, there are two cards from the ♦ suit. This therefore, cannot be considered as a valid set.
Valid declaration
A declaration is a pivotal and culminating and crucial part of the game when you play rummy for cash or otherwise. Therefore, it's important to know what a valid declaration or show is with examples. A valid declaration should use all 13 cards and must contain:
● Two valid sequences
● Two valid sets
● At least one Pure sequence
Examples of valid declarations
Example 1
Ace♦ 2♦ 3♦ 4♦ - Valid sequence 1
5♠ 6♠ 7♠ - Valid sequence 2
9♦ 9♠ 9♣ - Valid set 1
Queen♠ Queen♦ Queen♣ - Valid set 2
From Example 1, you will notice that all 13 cards have been used to form two valid sequences and two valid sets. Also, there is at least one Pure sequence. Therefore, this is a valid declaration.
Example 2
3♥ 4♥ 5♥ 6♥ - Valid pure sequence 1
Jack♣ 7♥ Jack♥ - Valid sequence 2 where 7♥ is the wild joker (Impure sequence)
Queen♠ Queen♦ Queen♣ - Valid set 1
9♠ 9♥ 9♣ - Valid set 2
In Example 2, there are two clear sequences, one pure sequence, and the second one an Impure sequence which uses the joker to complete the sequence. You will also notice that there are two valid sets as well - all of this ensures that this is a valid declaration
Invalid or wrong declarations
An invalid declaration is one where at least one of the sequences and/or sets are invalid and/or does not contain the correct number of sequences and sets. Let's look at some examples:
Example 1 - Where 9♥ is the wild joker
A♥ 2♥ 3♥ 4♥ - Valid pure sequence
5♣ 5♠ 9♥ - Valid set 1 with wild joker
6♦ 6♠ 9♥ - Valid set 2 with wild joker
7♦ 7♣ 7♥ - Valid set 3
In Example 1, all the sequences and sets are valid, however, there is only one sequence. In order to make a valid declaration, there must be at least two valid sequences.
Example 2 - Where an invalid set is used
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A♣ 2♣ 3♣ 4♣ - Valid sequence 1
5♣ 6♣ 7♣ - Valid sequence 2
7♥ 7♦ 7♥ - Invalid set
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9♦ 9♠ 9♣ - Valid set 2
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From Example 2, you will notice that 7♥ has been used twice to form an invalid set. As such, this invalidates the who declaration, even though the other criteria has been met. With that, we complete this rummy guide. Now we do hope you are now all set to enter the rummy arena! You could even begin with a few practice games on RummyCentral. Nothing comes close to the sheer excitement, thrill and rush of playing rummy. This game of skill is so very interesting and engrossing that it continues to be one of the most popular games in India. What's more, once you add the possibility of winning some cash - the stakes are raised by several notches, and the excitement builds so very deliciously. Now, we do hope to see you at RummyCentral, where you can get stuck into some truly exciting rummy action!