Point Trick Card Games – What They're All About

What Are Point Trick Card Games?

Point trick card games are a category of trick-taking games where the winner of each trick (or round) is determined by the points associated with the cards played, rather than the number of tricks won. This is in contrast to plain-trick games, where the objective is to win the most tricks regardless of the point value of the cards.

Types of Point Trick Games

Point trick games can be broadly classified into two categories:

1. Positive Trick Games: The goal is to accumulate more points than your opponents.
2. Negative Trick Games: The aim is to avoid taking any points.

Some games don't fit neatly into these categories and have unique rules that require players to reach a specific number of points, predetermined before the game starts.

Special Card Combinations

Many point trick games feature special card combinations that can significantly boost a player's score. For example, in Klaverjassen, a well-known combination is "shooting the moon," which can dramatically alter the game's outcome.

Major Groups of Point Trick Games

Trappola Games

• Deck: 36 cards
• Origin: Hundreds of years old
• Unique Feature: Uses a specialized deck

Tarot Games

• Deck: Unique tarot deck
• Unique Feature: Certain cards are always considered trumps

Ace-Ten Games

• High Cards: Ace and Ten
• Scoring System: Similar to Klaverjassen

Marriage, Schafkopf, and Sedma Games

• Derived From: Ace-Ten games
• Unique Elements: Special rules for trumps and bonuses for specific card combinations

Manille Games

• Scoring Scheme: The Ten is the highest card in France, while the Nine is the highest in Spain

Why Play Point Trick Games Online?

Playing point trick games like Klaverjassen online offers a more engaging experience compared to playing against a computer. The interaction with real people adds an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability. For those tired of games like Texas Hold'em or Hearts, Klaverjassen and other point trick games provide a refreshing alternative.

Interesting Stats

• Popularity: According to a 2021 survey, 35% of card game enthusiasts prefer trick-taking games, with point trick games being a significant subset (Source: Statista).
• Online Gaming: The online card game market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2021 to 2026, driven by the increasing popularity of games like Klaverjassen (Source: Mordor Intelligence).

Conclusion

Point trick card games offer a unique blend of strategy and entertainment. Whether you're a seasoned card player or a newcomer, these games provide endless hours of fun and challenge. So, the next time you're looking for a new card game to try, consider diving into the world of point trick games.

For more information on the history and rules of various card games, check out Pagat and Bicycle Cards.