Objective of the Game
Écarté is a classic two-player card game that involves winning rounds by taking tricks, with the aim of being the first to reach a score of 5 points.
Game Components
Écarté is played using a standard French deck of cards, reduced to 32 cards (all cards lower than the seven are removed from the game). The cards are ranked in their traditional order: Ace is the highest, followed by King, Queen, Jack, 10, 9, 8, and 7.
Gameplay
1. Dealing
A player is selected as the dealer and deals five cards to each player. The remaining cards are placed face down on the table, and the top card is turned over to determine the trump suit for the round.
2. Exchange
The non-dealer, also known as the challenger, then has the option to exchange up to three cards for new ones from the stock pile. The dealer follows with their opportunity to exchange cards. A player cannot draw more cards than are available in the stock.
If the challenger is satisfied with their hand, they can declare "Carte", meaning they wish to proceed without an exchange, commencing the rounds.
3. Trump Change
Before the exchange, the challenger has the option to demand a new deal by saying "I demand a fresh deal". This is allowed if no cards have been exchanged and the current trump suit is not advantageous.
4. Trick Rounds
- The challenger plays the first card.
- Each player must follow suit if possible. If not, they may play a trump card.
- The player winning the trick leads the next round.
A trick is won by the highest card of the led suit, or the highest trump if a trump card was played.
Scoring
- Winning three or more tricks gives a player 1 point.
- If a player wins all five tricks, they receive 2 points.
- If no tricks are won after the exchange due to only low cards ("dead hand"), the dealer may receive a bonus point.
Additional scoring rules exist based on agreements made before the game, which can add to the strategic depth of play.
Strategic Tips
- Mind the Trump Suit: Knowledge of the trump suit can be decisive. Consider changing a weak trump if it's desirable.
- Use the Exchange Wisely: Keep an eye on specific cards' distribution in your hand to maximize your advantage.
- Use Tricks Skillfully: Remember the rule where an unfollowed suit can be trumped to gain control.
Écarté combines elements of luck and tactical decision-making, offering a thrilling head-to-head experience.
Enjoy the game!
