What Card Games Do They Play in Jail?

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By Ralph Torres

Card games have been a popular pastime for people all over the world. They are easy to learn and can be played with different groups of people, and even in jail, card games are no exception. In fact, inmates have developed their own set of card games that they play during their free time.

One of the most popular card games played in jail is called “Spades.” It is a game that requires four players and a standard deck of 52 cards.

In this game, players bid on the number of tricks they think they can win, and the team with the highest bid plays against the other team. The objective is to win as many tricks as possible.

Another popular card game played in jails is “Gin Rummy.” It is a two-player game that requires a deck of 52 cards.

Players aim to form sets or runs of cards before their opponent does. The player who gets rid of all their cards first wins.

“Pitch” is another game that inmates often play. It requires at least three players and can be played with a standard deck or a Pinochle deck. Each player is dealt six cards, and players take turns bidding on how many points they think they can score based on the cards in their hand.

Inmates also enjoy playing “Hearts,” which is another game that requires four players and a standard deck of 52 cards. Players aim to avoid getting any heart cards or the queen of spades, which will give them penalty points.

Aside from these popular card games, inmates have also created variations such as “Tonk,” “Euchre,” and “Pinochle.” These games require unique rules and strategies but are still based on traditional card games.

In conclusion, inmates have found ways to pass their time through playing various card games such as Spades, Gin Rummy, Pitch, Hearts, Tonk, Euchre, Pinochle, and other variations. Card games provide a way for inmates to bond with their fellow inmates and alleviate the stress of being in jail. Although playing card games is not the only activity that inmates can do, it offers a temporary escape from their reality and can serve as a source of enjoyment during their incarceration.