Rules of Rummy

Rummy is a classic card game enjoyed by players of all ages. It’s easy to learn and offers a mix of skill and strategy. Whether you're new to the game or need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the basic rules, objectives, and gameplay of Rummy.

Objective of Rummy

The goal of Rummy is to form valid sets and sequences (also called melds) from the cards in your hand. The first player to successfully do this and discard their final card wins the game.

Game Setup

• Rummy is typically played with 2 to 6 players.
• Use one standard 52-card deck for 2-4 players, and two decks for 5 or more.
• Each player is dealt 10 cards (13 in some variations).
• The rest of the deck is placed face down to form the draw pile. The top card is placed face up to start the discard pile.

How to Play

1. On their turn, a player draws one card from the draw or discard pile.
2. They try to form sets (3 or 4 of a kind) and sequences (3+ cards in consecutive order of the same suit).
3. They end their turn by discarding one card.
4. The first player to use all their cards in valid sets and sequences and discard one final card wins the round.

Valid Sets and Sequences

• Set: Three or four cards of the same rank but different suits (e.g., 8♠, 8♦, 8♥).
• Sequence: Three or more consecutive cards of the same suit (e.g., 5♣, 6♣, 7♣).

Scoring

• The winner gets 0 points.
• Other players score penalty points based on the cards remaining in their hand.
• Face cards and Aces = 10 points, number cards = face value.

Basic Rummy Strategy

• Watch what others discard to avoid helping them.
• Try to keep track of what suits are being picked or dropped.
• Keep your hand flexible early on and don’t hold high-point cards for too long.

Rummy is a timeless game of matching, strategy, and fun. Now that you know the rules, grab a deck or start playing online. Good luck!