Tarot cards are often associated with divination and fortune-telling. However, many people are unaware that tarot cards can also be used to play various card games. In this article, we will explore the history of tarot cards and their significance in different cultures as well as how to play card games with tarot cards.
The History of Tarot Cards
The origin of tarot cards can be traced back to medieval Europe, where they were originally used for playing card games. The first known deck of tarot cards was created in Italy during the 15th century. The deck comprised of 78 cards, consisting of four suits: cups, swords, wands, and pentacles, along with a set of 22 trump cards.
Over time, the use of tarot cards evolved from a simple playing card game to a tool for divination and fortune-telling. Today, many people use tarot cards to gain insight into their past, present or future.
Can You Play Card Games With Tarot Cards?
Yes! Tarot cards can be used to play various card games such as French Tarot, Tarocchini and Tarock among others. These games are played similarly to traditional playing card games but with some variations depending on the specific game being played.
How To Play French Tarot
French Tarot is one of the most popular card games played using tarot cards. It is a trick-taking game that involves four players who play in teams of two.
How To Set Up:
- Remove all the Major Arcana (trump) cards from the deck.
- The dealer shuffles and deals out all 78 cards equally amongst all players.
- The player who possesses the Fool becomes the first lead.
How To Play:
- Each player plays one card following the lead suit.
- The highest-value card in the lead suit wins the trick.
- The player who wins the trick leads next.
- If a player cannot follow the lead suit, they can play any card from their hand.
- The team to reach 501 points first wins the game.
How To Play Tarocchini
Tarocchini is another popular card game played with tarot cards. It is a trick-taking game that involves three to five players.
How To Set Up:
- Remove all Major Arcana cards except for the Fool, and all of the numbered cards except for those numbered 1, 2, and 3 in each of the four suits.
- The dealer shuffles and deals out 15 cards to each player.
How To Play:
- Players take turns leading tricks with one card from their hand.
- The highest-value card in the lead suit wins the trick unless one of the trump cards is played, in which case that trumps any other suit.
- If a player cannot follow suit or trump, they may play any card they choose.
- The first player to win five tricks wins the game.
Conclusion
Tarot cards have a rich history beyond divination and fortune-telling. They were originally created for playing various card games in Europe during medieval times.
French Tarot and Tarocchini are just two examples of how tarot cards can be used to play engaging and exciting card games. So, the next time you have a deck of tarot cards lying around, why not try playing a game with them? Who knows, you might just discover a new way to enjoy these mystical cards.