Objective of the Game
Slap (Abschlagen in German) is a simple children's card game played with a standard deck of cards. The objective of the game is to be the first player to get rid of all their cards.
Setup
- A minimum of two players is required, but more can join.
- Use a standard 52-card deck evenly distributed among all players.
- Each player holds their cards facedown.
Gameplay
- Starting a Round:
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The player to the dealer's left begins by placing the top card from their deck face down in the center.
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Placing Cards:
- Players take turns, in clockwise order, placing one card at a time face down in the center.
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A player announces what they claim to be the top card (e.g., "Ace," "King," "Two," etc.). The declared card does not have to match the card they actually played.
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Slapping the Deck:
- If a player believes a claimed card is accurate, they can slap the pile in the center while shouting “Slap!”
- All players pause and the pile is flipped to reveal the top card.
- Correct Declaration: If the declared card matches the top card of the pile, the player who slapped takes all the cards and places them at the bottom of their pile.
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Incorrect Declaration: If the announcement was false, the player who slapped must take all the cards in the center.
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Turn and Penalties:
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If a player hesitates while laying a card or making a declaration, any other player may slap the pile. If the slap is correct, the hesitating player picks up the cards.
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Winning:
- A player wins by correctly playing and declaring their last card and having it not be challenged incorrectly by another player.
Strategic Tips
- Bluffing: Players often bluff their claims to prompt others to slap quickly. However, bluffing carries the risk of someone correctly identifying the false claim, leading to the bluffer collecting cards.
- Recognize Hesitation: An observant player can easily spot hesitation or uncertainty from other players, turning it into an advantage by prompting others to slap prematurely.
This game mixes luck and bluffing and requires attention and quick reactions. It’s perfect for adding fun and excitement to a group, especially with younger players.
