Objective
Tapp-Tarock is a classic card game typically played with three or four players. The main objective is to achieve specific scores or sums of tricks in various game modes, such as solo play or open games, while collecting as many trick points as possible.
Game Materials
The game is played with a special Tarock deck containing 54 cards: - 22 trump cards (the Tarock cards) - 32 suit cards (in four suits)
The trump cards are numbered from I to XXI, with an additional card called the Fool or sometimes Sküs, which serves as a joker.
Gameplay
- Dealing Cards: Each player receives twelve cards, and the remaining cards form a talon (stack) consisting of 6 cards.
- Bidding Phase: Players bid on different types of games (e.g., Solo, Three-player, Piccolo) and aim to take on certain declarer roles.
- Types of Games:
- Solo: The soloist plays against the other players and may exchange cards from the talon.
- Three-player: Two players play against one.
- Piccolo: A unique game type where the declarer needs to win exactly one trick.
- Bettel: The declarer must avoid making tricks in this variant.
- Tricks: Cards are played in tricks, with trump cards always winning, and the Fool (joker) replacing any card in some scenarios.
Scoring
- Points are awarded for achieving certain card values or combinations.
- The winner of a game receives points based on house rules or tournament standards.
Strategic and Situational Nuances
- In solo play, the advantage of the talon swap allows the player to discard unfavorable cards.
- Choosing the "right" game depends on the hand dealt; a keen assessment of card strength is essential.
- In the Bettel variant, avoiding tricks is paramount, requiring sharp reading of opponents’ cards.
- Cooperative games (e.g., three-player) demand good communication and subtle tactical moves within the team.
Final Notes
Rules can vary slightly, so it is advisable to agree on specific house rules before starting to play.
