How Many Official Card Games Are There?

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By Valerie Becker

If you’re a fan of card games, you might be wondering just how many official card games are out there. Well, the answer is not so simple. There are countless card games played all over the world, but only a select few have been recognized as official games.

What Makes a Card Game Official?

To be considered an official card game, a game must have an established set of rules and regulations that are recognized by a governing body or organization. These organizations can be anything from local clubs to national or international associations.

Some of the most well-known governing bodies in the world of card games include the World Bridge Federation, the International Skat Players Association, and the World Series of Poker.

Examples of Official Card Games

While there are countless card games played around the world, only a select few have been recognized as official games by governing bodies. Here are some examples:

Bridge

Bridge is one of the most well-known and widely played card games in the world. It’s recognized as an official game by the World Bridge Federation and is played in tournaments all over the globe.

Poker

Poker is another popular card game that’s recognized as an official game by multiple organizations. The World Series of Poker is perhaps the most well-known poker tournament in the world, attracting players from all corners of the globe every year.

Canasta

Canasta is a lesser-known but still popular card game that’s recognized as an official game by several organizations. It’s often played in social settings and has a loyal following among enthusiasts.

Other Card Games

While these three games are some of the most well-known and widely recognized official card games, there are many others out there that have gained popularity over time.

Some examples include:

  • Hearts
  • Spades
  • Rummy
  • Gin Rummy
  • Cribbage

The Bottom Line

While there are countless card games played around the world, only a select few have been recognized as official games by governing bodies. These games have established rules and regulations that are recognized by players and organizations alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s no shortage of card games to choose from. So grab a deck of cards and start playing!