Pocket is a popular game that can be played with friends and family. It is a simple yet entertaining game that requires a deck of cards and some strategy. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to play pocket.
1. Setup
First, shuffle the deck of cards and deal four cards to each player. The remaining cards are placed facedown in the center of the playing area, forming the draw pile. Each player should keep their cards hidden from the others.
2. Objective
The objective of pocket is to build a four-card hand that has the lowest total value. In this game, cards are ranked from lowest to highest: Ace, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King. The value of each card corresponds to its rank, except for the face cards which are worth 10 points each.
3. Gameplay
Starting with the player to the left of the dealer, each player takes turns either drawing a card from the draw pile or picking up the top card from the discard pile. The discard pile is formed by placing cards face up next to the draw pile. The player then decides which card to keep and which card to discard from their hand. The discarded card is placed face up on top of the discard pile.
4. Discarding and Replacing Cards
After drawing a card and making a choice, the player must discard one card from their hand and replace it with the card they have chosen. The discarded card can be placed face up on top of the discard pile or placed face down next to it.
5. End of the Game
The game ends when one player has built a complete hand of four cards. At this point, all players reveal their hands and calculate the total value of their cards. The player with the lowest total value wins the game.
Pocket is a fun and strategic card game that is suitable for players of all ages. Give it a try at your next gathering and see who can build the best hand!