Ultimate List of Popular Card Games in India

Popular Card Games 

Tradition has it that in India, card games are synonymous with festivities and any kind of celebrations that take place in local households. Earlier people used to bond over card games offline and playing cards always gave a reason to look forward to something entertaining. However, the ever-changing times and busy lifestyle led people to make a major switch to do everything online and this changed the gaming experience for everyone. 

Nonetheless, some of the great times are still spent playing some of the best card games in India. Want to know which are the most popular ones? Find the list of card games that completes every household in India. 

History of Playing Cards

Playing cards have a long, illustrious history that can be linked to several international locations. Playing cards have grown and expanded across several civilizations, becoming a well-liked game all over the globe, even if the original roots are still unknown. The 9th century is when the oldest playing cards were first discovered in China. These cards, constructed initially of paper or wood, were probably used for amusement. Playing cards originated in China and traveled to the Islamic world through trade channels before reaching Europe in the fourteenth century. Playing cards were trendy and experienced considerable changes throughout Europe. Hearts, diamonds, clubs, and spades make up the four suits of the standard European deck. The ace, king, queen, and jack are among each suit's thirteen ranks. The court cards often have elaborate patterns and show numerous mythological or historical personalities. Playing cards are used widely across all socioeconomic strata due to playing card availability and affordability increasing over time. Card games were played in various locations, from royal palaces to bars, and they quickly became a mainstay of social gatherings. In the fifteenth century, the invention of the printing press changed playing card manufacturing by allowing for mass production and increased accessibility. Introducing uniform card types and suites further aided their acceptance and popularity. People of various ages and cultures still love playing cards nowadays. In addition to many other games, they are used for poker, blackjack, bridge, and solitaire. Additionally, playing card decks have evolved into collector artifacts, with fans pursuing old and uniquely crafted sets. Playing cards have a long history, demonstrating their lasting appeal and capacity to unite people in a spirit of amusement and friendly rivalry.

Why Are Card Games So Popular?

Card games have remained popular throughout history and captivated players of all ages and backgrounds. The persistent attraction to card games is attributed to several factors:

1. Simplicity: Card games often feature straightforward rules and mechanics, making them accessible to various players. Due to its simplicity, card games may be enjoyed by both novice and experienced players without the need for considerable learning or sophisticated strategy.
2. Social contact: Card games provide a chance for face-to-face involvement and social contact. They may be played with loved ones, close friends, or strangers, strengthening ties and producing unforgettable moments. Card games are a terrific way to meet and socialize since they often entail discussion, laughing, and friendly rivalry.
3. Flexibility and Variety: Card games provide various playing possibilities and forms, accommodating various preferences and skill levels. There is a card game to fit every preference, whether you like strategy-based games like poker or fast-paced games like Uno. Due to its adaptability, card games let players choose the level of gameplay that they love the most.
4. Versatile and Transportable: A deck of cards is a valuable form of entertainment that is small, transportable, and simple to carry. A deck of cards may provide hours of entertainment, whether at home, on vacation, or waiting for a bus. Additionally, because of its adaptability, card games may be adjusted for various settings and player counts.
5. Skill and Strategy: While many card games have straightforward rules, they still need skill and planning. Players must make judgments, consider probability, and use strategies to outwit their opponents. Card games' blend of skill and chance provides excitement and a feeling of challenge, which appeals to those who want mental stimulation.

Card games' appeal may be due to their mobility, diversity, social aspects, simplicity, and ability to combine skill and strategy. Card games have endured time as a form of relaxation for numerous people worldwide, whether for simple pleasure or severe competition.

Also Read: Best 4-Player Card Games

List of Popular Card Games in India in 2023

Rummy

To win the card game rummy, players must arrange their cards into lawful sequences and sets. In rummy, the order of the cards is Ace > Jack > Queen > King, beginning with the suit-specific cards. Each point earned by the Ace, Jack, Queen, and King is equal to 10. The remaining cards' values are their respective face values.

How to Play?

With a typical 52-card deck, Rummy is a well-liked card game. Be the first player to discard all of your cards by forming sets or runs of cards. Here is a how-to for playing Rummy, along with some advice:

1. Setup: Rummy may be played by two to six players. Each participant receives a certain number of cards—usually 13, which is the standard. The discard pile is started by flipping one card face up, and the stockpile is made by placing the remaining cards face down.
2. Gameplay: On your turn, you may take the top card from the discard pile or draw a card from the stockpile. It would be beneficial if you fused cards from your hand to form valid sets or runs.

• Sets: A set comprises three or four cards with the same rank but different suits. Take the eights of hearts, diamonds, and spades, for instance.
• Runs: A run is three or more consecutive cards of the same suit. Take the clubs 3, 4, and 5, for instance.

1. Melding and Laying Off: You may place legitimate sets or runs on the table once you have them. You may also contribute cards to other players' melds to make them longer. We refer to this as "laying off."
2. Discarding: After your round, you must add one card to the discard pile. Pick a card that is not required to finish your sets or runs.
3. How the Game Ends: The game is over when a player discards their last card. The points in the hands of the remaining players are totaled. King, Queen, and Jack face cards are for ten points apiece, while numbered cards are worth their face value. Depending on the game type, aces might be worth one or eleven points.

The game of Rummy mixes talent, strategy, and a little chance. You may enhance your decision-making skills and raise your chances of success through training and experience. Enjoy the game, and for more excitement, try out some other Rummy versions.

Poker 

Five Card Draw is one of the simplest poker variants and starts with each player being dealt five cards. Following the first deal, players may exchange up to three cards for fresh ones. If you have five cards, and they're the finest possible combination, you win.

How to Play?

Poker is a well-liked and often-played card game requiring skill and strategy. Having a better hand or persuading other players to fold are two ways to win bets. Here is some advice and a how-to for playing poker:

1. Setup: A standard 52-card deck is used to play poker in most situations. Although the number of participants might vary, it is often played with 2 to 10 people. Depending on the poker variation being played, a certain amount of cards are dealt to each participant.
2. Hand Rankings: Become familiar with the poker hand rankings. The lowest-ranking hand is frequently a high card (no pairings or combinations), while the highest-ranking hand is typically a royal flush (Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and Ten of the same suit).
3. Betting Rounds: When playing poker, many betting rounds are involved. A player may choose to gamble, check (if no bets have been placed), call (to match the previous bet), raise (to increase the previous bet), or fold (to lose the hand and any bets placed) when it is their time to act.
4. Card swap: In certain poker variations, players may choose to swap or discard any cards they currently hold for new cards drawn from the deck. The draw round or exchange round is this.
5. Showdown: A showdown occurs if there are still many participants after the last betting round. Players expose their cards, and the player with the highest-ranking hand wins the pot. Without revealing their hands, players win the pot when they make a stake, and no one else calls.

Remember that playing poker involves experience, perseverance, and a strategic approach. Having a long view while playing the game and enjoying yourself is crucial.

Satte pe Satta

The card game Satte pe Satta is exceptionally well-known and popular in India. Here, it would help if you swiftly discarded all of your cards by placing bets on cards that are ranked or organized numerically in the card deck. For instance, if a player throws 4 spades, the next player may choose to distribute 3 or 5 spades.

Satte pe Satta, often known as 7 on 7, is a fun game for large groups. Three to eight people play Satte pe Satta with one deck or limitless players with several 52-card decks. King is the highest card in this game, while Ace is the lowest.

How to Play?

The famous Indian card game "Satte pe Satta" is often played at special events or social gatherings. Players must make educated guesses about the dealer's cards in this game of chance. Here is a tutorial for playing Satte pe Satta and some advice:

1. Setup: A 52-card standard deck is usually used for Satte pe Satta. The cards are dealt face-down after being shuffled by the dealer.
2. Gameplay: The dealer begins by revealing to each player the top card from the deck. It is known as the "open card." The next step is for each player to predict whether the card that comes after the open card will be higher or lower in rank.
3. Guessing: Depending on their estimation of the rank of the next card, players may choose to estimate "satte" (higher) or "pe satta" (lower) when it is their turn. The next card is shown once the dealer draws it from the deck.
4. Winning and Losing: If a player's first estimate is accurate, they make another. They are eliminated from the game if their guess is wrong. The game continues until either one person is left or every card in the deck has been used.
5. Scoring: The person with the most accurate guesses or the last player standing wins the game. You may play for fun without keeping score or giving a point system.

Players of all ages may enjoy the straightforward and enjoyable card game Satte pe Satta. It's a fantastic approach to strengthen ties with loved ones and friends and infuse your get-togethers with energy.

Also Read: Top 2 Player Card Games

Teen Patti

The three cards all have the same suit. The person with the highest card wins if two players both have flushes; if their high cards are the same, the next highest card is compared, and if necessary, the third card. The hands are sorted by suit, with spades coming in first and clubs coming last if two players have identical card values.

How to Play?

In India, a classic card game called Teen Patti, often Flush or Three Card Brag, is played. Poker-like in nature, it entails wagering based on the potency of your hand. Here is a tutorial for playing Teen Patti and some advice:

1. Initial setup: Teen Patti is played with a standard 52-card deck sans jokers. The game may be played by three to six players. Each player receives three face-down cards.
2. Betting Rounds: Teen Patti has a number of betting rounds. Players may choose to wager, call (match the previous bet), raise (increase the previous bet), or fold (forego the hand and forfeit the stakes). The order of the players is clockwise.
3. Hand Rankings: Get to know Teen Patti's hand rating system. The best hand is a trail or set, which consists of three cards of the same rank. Other good hands are sequences, colors, pairs, and high cards, which don't have any combinations.
4. Showdown: If there are several players left after the last round of betting, a showdown will take place. Players reveal their cards, and the pot is won by the one with the strongest hand. If two or more players have the same ranking hand, the player with the highest card wins.
5. Side Bets: Teen Patti sometimes offers additional side bets, such as "Schaal" or "blind" bets. The stakes and possible winnings of the game might be increased by these bets, which are made before the cards are dealt.

Teen Patti is a fun and friendly card game that blends psychology, betting, and strategy. Play this thrilling Indian card game responsibly and have fun competing against your friends or other players.

Bridge

Learning any four-person card game where each player plays one card in turn and the best card wins the best method to master the card-playing portion of the bridge. Spades are the most well-liked trick-taking game (a great game in itself).

How to Play?

The bridge is a tricky card game that requires four players to work together in two partnerships. The goal is to win tricks and accrue points. Here is some advice and a how-to for playing bridge:

1. A regular 52-card deck is used as part of the setup for playing bridge. Each of the two pairs of the four players is sitting across from the other. The bidding process is facilitated by the use of a bidding box or bidding pad.
2. Bidding: The game starts with a phase when players make bids one at a time. Bids specify the number of tricks and Trump suits (or No Trump) the partnership thinks they can win. Beginning at level one, bids progress in rank and suit strength.
3. Gameplay: The declarer is the one who won the last offer from the declarer's partnership. The declarer's partner takes on the dummy's role and lays their cards face-up on the board. The defenders play collectively, while the declarer plays their cards and the dummies.
4. Trick-taking: The player on the declarer's left plays a card to lead the first trick. If possible, the other players must do the same. The winning player leads in the following trick when the leading suit's highest-ranking card wins.
5. Scoring: The pair who won the bid calculates the number of tricks they won and compares it to their bid after all the tricks have been performed. Depending on the outcome, they get points. Additional transactions are made during the game until a particular score is attained.

Blackjack

In blackjack, everyone competes against the dealer (the house). The idea is to draw cards with a value as close to 21 without going over. A bust happens when a player's hand total exceeds 21. Players compete against the dealer at a blackjack table, not each other.

How to Play?

In the well-liked blackjack card game, the object is to have a hand more significant than the dealers without going over 21. Here is some advice and a how-to for playing blackjack:

1. Setup: One or more 52-card standard decks are used to play the blackjack game. The face cards (King, Queen, and Jack) are worth 10 points each; the numbered cards are for their face value, and the Ace may be 1 or 11 points.
2. The dealer is given one card face-up, and one card face-down, and each player is dealt two cards face-up. The decision to "hit" (request new cards) or "stand" (end their turn) is made by each player in turn. The goal is to go as close to 21 as you can without going over.
3. Hand Values: The point values of the cards are added to determine the overall hand value. A "bust" occurs, and the player loses their stake if their hand totals more than 21. A "blackjack" is when a player's hand totals 21 with their opening two cards (an Ace and a 10-value card), and they win at a higher payout percentage.
4. Dealer's Turn: After each player's turn is completed, the dealer displays their face-down card. Depending on the casino, the dealer must adhere to certain restrictions. Typically, they must hit until their hand totals 17 or more, at which point they must stand.
5. Winning and Losing: A player wins and receives a payout of 1:1 if their hand is more substantial in value than the dealers without exceeding 21. A "push" occurs, and the wager is refunded when the player and dealer have the same hand value. All remaining players win if the dealer's hand totals more than 21.

Keep in mind that blackjack is a game of skill and chance. You may improve your blackjack experience and raise your wins by using strategy, controlling your bets, and making wise judgments.

Mendikot

Any card may be led to the first trick by the player on the dealer's right. If feasible, players must follow suit; those unable to do so may play any card. The highest card in the lead suit wins a trick devoid of trumps. The highest trump prevails if any trumps are played.

How to Play?

A conventional 52-card deck is used to play the trick-taking card game Mendikot, sometimes known as Mindi or Mendicot. Four players often participate in partnerships to play it. The goal is to win tricks and rack up the most points possible. Here is some advice and a tutorial on how to play Mendikot:

1. There are two teams of four players each for the game of mendikot. Players sitting across from one another are partners. Each card in the deck that is lower than Nine should be removed. Point values should be assigned to Aces (11 points), Tens (10 points), Kings (4 points), Queens (3 points), and Jacks (2 points).
2. Gameplay: The game consists of many rounds. 13 cards are dealt to each participant once every round. The first trick is started by the person on the left of the dealer by playing a card. If others can, they must do the same; if not, they may play any card. The trick is won by the card of the dominant suit with the highest rank.
3. Trump Suit: Prior to the start of each game, a trump suit is selected. The dealer turns the top card of the undealt deck face-up, revealing the trump suit for that round.
4. Scoring: Following each round, the couples tally their trick-point totals. If a partnership earns more points than it bid, it is given the actual points earned. If they are unable to meet their offer, they suffer a penalty of points equal to their bid. The other pair's scores are scored as well.
5. Winning: The game is played over a certain number of rounds. The team that finishes the game with the highest score overall wins.

A game called Mendikot mixes communication, strategy, and card management. You'll build more robust strategies and a more excellent grasp of the game with time and experience. As you strive for success, take pleasure in the game and the companionship of your teammates.

Bluff

the game of cards, Bluff seeks to have players discard all of their cards. Players are free to make up facts regarding the cards they've used. The game's name is shouted out, and participants may challenge one another. The challenge loser must pick up any cards that have been played up to that moment.

How to Play?

A card game called Bluff, sometimes known as Cheat, I Doubt It, or BS gauges a player's deception and lying detection capacity. The game's goal is to bluff your opponents to eliminate all your cards effectively. Here are the fundamental guidelines and some advice to help you play better:

1. Number of Players: Three or more players are recommended while playing Bluff. The game grows increasingly tricky and entertaining as the number of participants increases.
2. Playing Card Deck: Make use of a standard 52-card deck. Ace is the highest card, followed by 2 for the lowest, in the deck.
3. Dealing the Cards: After shuffling the deck, the dealer distributes the cards equally among all players. The game is initiated by the player on the dealer's left.
4. Gameplay: Each player takes turns putting cards face down on the playing area, declaring the rank of the cards they are playing, starting with the person to the dealer's left. However, players are only compelled to be somewhat honest about the cards they play.
5. Calling Bluff: The next player may declare "Bluff" if they believe the prior player lied about the suit of the cards dealt. The cards are shown if a bluff is called. The player must take the entire pile if they were playing a bluff. The person who called the Bluff must pick up the pile if the player speaks the truth.
6. Elimination: A player is removed from the game if they run out of cards. The winner is decided when only one participant is left in the game.

Keep in mind that bluffing is a deceptive and strategic game. Enjoy the game by outwitting your opponents with wit, observational abilities, and psychological strategies.

Also Read: Meanings of Playing Card Symbols

Donkey

The game is played similarly to the classic Old Maid. The participants match words instead of images, reading the word each time they match a pair. All the cards are dealt to the players face down after being shuffled. Avoiding becoming the player with the Donkey card at the conclusion of the game is the objective.

How to Play?

Donkey, often called Spoons or Pig, is a quick-thinking card game that requires keen observational and response abilities. The game aims to avoid being the last player to take a spoon when a matching set of cards is received. Here is a how-to for playing Donkey and some advice to help you play better:

1. The minimum required number of players to play Donkey is three. The game grows more chaotic and exciting as the number of participants increases.
2. Playing Card Deck: Make use of a standard 52-card deck. If there are three players, take away one card; if there are four, take away two cards, and so on.
3. Setup: Place spoons in the middle of the playing space, one less than the total number of players. For instance, if there are six players, put five spoons in the center.
4. The dealer hands four cards to each player after shuffling the deck. The dealer then lays the remaining deck faces down before the players.
5. The player to the dealer's left chooses one card from their hand to give to the player to their left. This process is repeated clockwise Until someone collects four cards with the same rank (for example, four Aces, four Kings, etc.).
6. Taking a Spoon: A player stealthily takes a spoon from the middle of the table after getting four cards that match. When other players catch on, they may each take a spoon.
7. The Donkey: For the first round, the loser receives the letter "D" for failing to grasp a spoon. For each defeat in the following rounds, they are given an extra letter ("O," "N," "K," "E," or "Y"). The moment players spell "DONKEY," they are out of the game.
8. Continuing the Game: After each round, remove one spoon and play until just one person is left—the winner.

Remember that Donkey is a vibrant, quick-paced game that demands quickness and attention. To continue playing, have fun, think quickly, and avoid being the last player to grab a spoon.

Call break

Call Break is a trick-taking card game that originated in South Asian countries like Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. It is played with a standard deck of 52 cards and involves four players divided into two partnerships. The objective of the game is to accurately predict and win the maximum number of tricks in each round. Players must strategically play their cards to outwit their opponents and ultimately score the highest points to emerge as the winner.

How to Play?

A conventional 52-card deck is used for the game, which four people play. The goal is to win tricks and get the most points possible. Here is some advice and a how-to for the game Call Break:

1. Setup: Call Break is a four-player game split into two pairs. The game is usually played clockwise. 13 cards are handed to each player, and the bidding round starts.
2. Bidding: In Call Break, participants place bids depending on how many tricks they believe they can win in a given round. The number of tricks is represented by the range of bids, from 1 to 13. All participants' combined bids must add up to 13.
3. Gameplay: The first trick starts with the player playing a card on the dealer's left. The other players must follow suit if it is possible. If a player cannot follow suit, they may play any card. When a trick is won, the player who plays the highest-ranking card in the active suit takes the lead in the next trick.
4. Call: Players may "call" how many tricks they think they can win in a given round at any time throughout the game. If a player's bet matches the number of tricks won, they are awarded points. If they are unable to match the bid, they lose points.
5. Scoring: Players sum up their trick victories after each round and compare them to their bid. If a player matches the bid, they are awarded points depending on the bid. If they exceed the bid, they get extra points. If they fail, they are docked points. After many rounds of play, the player with the highest score at the end of the game wins.
   
   

Andar Bahar - The Tash Game

Andar Bahar, also known as "Katti" or "Mangatha," is a popular Indian card game that is primarily based on luck and chance. It is played with a single deck of 52 cards and can accommodate any number of players. The game involves a dealer placing a single card face-up in the center and then dealing additional cards alternately to two sides, which are labeled "Andar" (Inside) and "Bahar" (Outside). The objective of the game is to correctly predict on which side, Andar or Bahar, a card of the same rank as the center card will appear.

How to Play?

The card game Andar Bahar sometimes referred to as "Katti," is well-liked in India. This game is simple to learn and is fun to play with a standard deck of cards. Here are some tips and a brief instructions on how to play Andar Bahar:

1. Setup: To begin, thoroughly shuffle the deck of cards before setting it face-down on the table. The cards will be put in Andar (left) and Bahar (right) at certain times throughout the game.
2. Betting: Prior to the game, players placed bets on Andar Bahar. The objective is to predict which side will equal the value of the center card.
3. The top card of the deck is dealt face up in the middle by the dealer. Each participant makes a prediction about which side will have the appropriate card.
4. Matching card: The dealer keeps alternating placing cards on Andar and Bahar during the course of the game until a card with the same value as the middle card pops up. For instance, if Bahar gets a 7 and the middle card is a 7, Bahar wins the wagers.
5. Winning: A player succeeds if the middle card's value matches the card that appears on their side of the stake. In such case, the dealer takes the bets.

Remember that Andar Bahar is a game of chance and that no method can ensure repeatable success. Play for fun and enjoy the game in moderation.

Spades

Spades is a popular trick-taking card game that is typically played by four players in two partnerships. It is commonly played in countries like the United States and Canada. The game is played with a standard deck of 52 cards, and the objective is for players to take tricks containing certain cards or combinations of cards. Players bid on the number of tricks they expect to win in each round, and the partnership that achieves their bid score points while those that fall short lose points. The game requires strategic card play and careful communication between partners to succeed.

How to Play?

Four players commonly form pairs to play the trick-taking card game Spades. The goal is to win tricks and get the most points possible. Here is some advice and a how-to for playing spades:

1. A conventional 52-card deck is used as part of the setup for playing spades. The four competitors are sitting across from one another in two teams. According to accepted practice, the cards are sorted with spades being the highest-ranking suit.
2. Bidding: The game starts with a session of bidding. Each player makes a bet, indicating the number of tricks they think their partnership can win, starting with the person to the dealer's left. The bids rise in one-unit increments, starting at zero.
3. How the game is played: If possible, the other players must imitate the winning player by playing a card from their hand. Players may play any card, including a spade, if they cannot follow suit. The dominant suit's highest card or spade wins the trick. The winner of a trick takes the lead in the next one.
4. Spades and Breaking: A spade must be played in the preceding trick before leading a spade. This is referred to as "breaking spades." Players may opt to lead with spades after spades have been broken.
5. Scoring: The teams tally their tricks won after each round. A team receives points depending on whether they reach or surpass the bid. They get penalty points if they don't meet the standard. The game goes on until a particular score is attained.
   
   

Three-Two-Five

Three-Two-Five, also known as 325, is a popular card game played primarily in India, specifically in the state of Kerala. It is a trick-taking game played by three players, and each player is dealt a specific number of cards from a standard deck of 52 cards. The objective of the game is to win a predetermined number of tricks, usually five, three, or two, depending on the variant being played. The game involves bidding and players must make accurate predictions about the number of tricks they can win. The player who meets or exceeds their bid wins the round and earns points, while the others lose points.

How to Play?

The popular trick-taking card game Three-Two-Five is played with a conventional 52-card deck. It includes bidding, taking tricks, and earning points. Three players are needed. Here is a tutorial on Three-Two-Five and some advice:

1. Configuration: The game is played by three players. Three-Two-Five. All cards save the Aces, Kings, Queens, Jacks, Tens, and Fives must be taken out of the deck. Each card should be given a point value, with Aces for 11, Tens at 10, Kings and Queens for 4, Jacks for 2, and Fives for 5.
2. Bidding: A round of bidding precedes the game. Going clockwise around the table, each player lays a wager equal to the amount of points they believe they will earn in the round. The bids must fall between 28 and 30 points. The person who made the largest wager selects the trump suit.
3. Gameplay: By playing a card in the first trick, the bidder gains the initiative. The other players must follow suit if at all feasible; if not, they may play any card. The highest trump card or the top card of the dominant suit wins the trick. The next trick is often started by the trick winner.
4. Scoring: Each participant totals the points earned from tricks achieved after the game. If they have accumulated at least as many points as they bid, the person who made the winning bet receives the exact points they earned. If they don't meet their offer, they get a negative amount of points equal to their bid. The other players' points are totaled as well.
5. Winning: The game, which sometimes consists of many rounds, is won by the player who first reaches the stipulated winning score (for example, 100 points).

Remember that Three-Two-Five involves risk assessment, strategy, and tactics. You'll better comprehend the game and strengthen your decision-making skills with time and experience. Take pleasure in the game and relish the challenge of outwitting your rivals.

Although they might not be on this list of card games, there are countless other card games online that are not only interesting but are worth being played for real cash. However, if you also want to be an expert in playing rummy or any other card game online, make sure you learn from the best. Download the First Games app and enjoy the best online gaming experience.