If you’re looking for a fun and engaging activity to enjoy with a friend or loved one, playing card games is a great option. However, not all card games are designed for two players. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best card games that you can play with just two people.
1. Gin Rummy
Gin Rummy is a classic card game that is perfect for two players.
The objective of the game is to score points by forming sets of cards in your hand. The game is played with a standard deck of 52 cards and each player is dealt ten cards. The remaining cards are placed in the center of the table and serve as the draw pile.
How to Play:
- Players take turns drawing either the top card from the draw pile or from the discard pile.
- The objective is to form sets of three or four cards that have either the same rank or run in sequence.
- Once a player has formed their sets, they can “knock” on their turn by placing their remaining cards face down on the table.
- The other player then has one more turn to try and form their own sets before both players reveal their hands and points are awarded based on who has more sets.
2. War
War is another classic card game that can be played with just two people. The game is simple and easy to learn, making it perfect for a quick game when you’re short on time.
How to Play:
- The deck is divided evenly between both players.
- Both players flip over their top card at the same time.
- The player with the highest ranking card wins both cards and adds them to their deck.
- If both cards have the same rank, it’s war time. Each player places three cards face down and then one card face up. The player with the highest ranking card wins all the cards on the table.
- The game continues until one player has all the cards or a predetermined amount of time has elapsed.
3. Speed
Speed is a fast-paced card game that requires quick reflexes and a sharp mind. The objective of the game is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards.
How to Play:
- Each player is dealt 20 cards that are placed in five rows of four cards.
- The remaining cards are placed in a draw pile in between both players.
- Both players flip over one card from their row at the same time and place it in the center of the table.
- Players then try to play as many cards as possible from their row onto the center pile in sequence (e.g. 1, 2, 3) or by matching rank (e. two kings).
- If neither player can play any more cards, they both flip over another card from their row and continue playing until someone gets rid of all their cards.
4. Go Fish
Go Fish is a classic children’s game that can also be enjoyed by adults. The objective of the game is to collect sets of four matching cards.
How to Play:
- Each player is dealt seven cards and the remaining deck is placed face down on the table.
- The first player asks their opponent if they have any specific rank (e. “Do you have any sevens?”).
If their opponent has any sevens, they must give them to the first player.
- If the opponent doesn’t have any sevens, they say “Go Fish” and the first player must draw a card from the deck.
- If the first player draws a seven, they can continue asking for more sevens. If not, their turn is over and it’s now their opponent’s turn to ask for cards.
- The game continues until someone collects four matching cards in their hand and wins.
Conclusion
Playing card games with two people can be a great way to bond and have fun. Whether you prefer classic games like Gin Rummy and War or fast-paced games like Speed and Go Fish, there’s a card game out there for every taste. So grab a deck of cards, invite a friend over, and get ready to have some fun!