Objective of the Game
Sixty-Six is a traditional card game typically played by two players. The objective is to be the first player to reach 66 points in a game or to win the last trick when your opponent has not yet acquired 66 points.
Cards and Scoring
The game uses a deck of 24 cards: the ranks Ace (A), 10, King (K), Queen (Q), Jack (J), and 9. Each card has an associated point value: - Ace = 11 points - Ten = 10 points - King = 4 points - Queen = 3 points - Jack = 2 points - Nine = 0 points
Game Setup
Each player is dealt six cards, and the remaining cards form the stock (deck), placed face down. The top card of the stock is turned face up to determine the trump suit and is left partially under the deck.
Gameplay
- The non-dealer starts the game by leading the first trick.
- The opponent must follow suit if possible. If they cannot, they may play any card.
- The trick is won by the player who played the highest card in the led suit or the highest trump.
- The winner of the trick draws the top card from the stock, followed by the loser.
- Play continues until the stock is depleted.
- After the last card is drawn, players must observe suit-following rules, obliging them to follow suit and overtrump if possible.
Special Rules
- Melds: If a player plays a pair (King and Queen of the same suit), they can announce and score 20 points (for normal suits) or 40 points (for trump suit) by showing the pair.
- Closing the Stock: A player may close the stock early by turning it face down. Afterwards, no further cards are drawn, and all tricks must be won by strict following rules.
Strategies
- Count Points: Keep track of your and your opponent's scores. A skilled player can estimate who is in the lead.
- Announce Marriages: Declare pairs early in the game for extra points and control.
- Manage Tricks: Focus on winning crucial tricks, especially towards the end of the game.
- Stock Management: Use the stock wisely – consider when to close it to disrupt the flow or pressure your opponent.
End of the Game
The game ends when a player declares they have reached 66 points or when the last trick is played and neither player reaches 66 points. The winner receives a point (or more, depending on the scoring system).
The game involves strategic thinking and an element of luck due to the draw from the stock.
