Cribbage
Objective:
The objective of Cribbage is to be the first player to score a certain number of points, typically 121 or another predetermined target.
Number of Players:
Cribbage is played with two to four players.
Deck:
A standard deck of 52 cards is used.
Card Values:
In Cribbage, the cards have the following values:
- Ace: 1 point
- Number cards (2-10): Face value
- Face cards (Jack, Queen, King): 10 points each
Gameplay:
- Dealing: The dealer shuffles the deck and deals six cards to each player, typically in a two-player game. Each player discards two cards into a separate pile known as the "crib."
- Crib: The dealer keeps the crib and includes it as part of their hand. The crib is scored at the end of the round.
- Cut Card: The non-dealer cuts the deck, and the dealer reveals the bottom card of the top portion. This card becomes the "starter" and is used during the scoring process.
- Play: Starting with the non-dealer, players take turns playing one card at a time, trying to create card combinations that score points. The cumulative value of the cards played must not exceed 31. A player who cannot play a card without exceeding 31 says, "Go," and the other player continues until they can no longer play. Players score points for reaching exactly 15, forming pairs, runs, and other card combinations.
- Scoring: Players score points during the play phase based on specific combinations of cards played. The player who played the last card in the sequence of play scores one point for "Go." After scoring, the players retrieve their cards and prepare for the next round.
- Pegging: During the play phase, players move their pegs along the scoring track on a cribbage board. Each player starts at the same point, and points earned during the play and scoring are pegged accordingly.
- Show: After the play, players reveal their hands and score additional points for specific combinations within their own hands and the starter card.
- Crib Scoring: The dealer scores the crib separately using the same combinations as the hand scoring.
- Winning: The game continues until one player reaches the target score, typically 121. The player who reaches or exceeds the target score first is declared the winner.
Cribbage is a game that combines strategy, luck, and mathematical calculations. Players must make tactical decisions during the play phase, score points based on card combinations, and skillfully manage their hand to maximize their chances of winning.