Types of Rummy Games – A Complete Guide

Rummy has remained a cherished card game in India for generations. With its availability on smartphones, the game has gained even more accessibility and popularity. As it has expanded into a global phenomenon, rummy enthusiasts should familiarize themselves with the numerous rummy variations in depth. Although the core rules persist, there are now multiple ways to enjoy and engage in rummy with companions.

The primary categories of rummy encompass 13 Card Rummy, 21 Card Rummy, and Gin & Contract Rummy. Each of these categories encompasses several subtypes. Notably, the 13 card rummy variation is the most widespread in India, and a majority of these games are accessible on the online rummy game .

Different Types of Rummy Variants

Each type of rummy variant involves minor adjustments in its rules. It’s imperative to familiarize yourself with the diverse rummy game types available on rummy apps and thoroughly comprehend the rules before participating in cash games.

Types of 13 Card Rummy Variants

Prominently played in India, the 13 card rummy game deals each player 13 cards. The regulations dictate that at least one pure sequence and one impure sequence must be melded for a valid declaration.

Several 13-card rummy game variants include:

• Indian Rummy
• Points Rummy
• Deals Rummy
• Pool Rummy

Indian Rummy 

A subtype of the 13-card rummy, Indian rummy is a blend of Gin and 500 rummy. Widely popular in India, the game requires forming sets and sequences before the opponent. Each player is initially dealt 13 cards. For a two-player game, a 52-card deck suffices, while a six-player game necessitates two decks. The first player to meld their sets must make a legitimate declaration to secure victory.

Points Rummy 

In this version, participants engage in 13-card Indian rummy for points, having determined the currency value beforehand. A player wins by declaring with a score of 0. The loser tallies points from non-melded cards, which are then added to their score. The victor collects cash based on the opponents’ total points.

Deals Rummy

Another iteration of the 13-card rummy, deals rummy involves dealing a fixed card count to each player. At the commencement, players receive a set amount of chips. After each round, the winner garners chips from opponents based on scores. Ultimately, the player with the higher chip count emerges as the victor.

Pool Rummy

This rummy variant operates on rounds and is commonly available on online platforms. Similar to points rummy, pool rummy continues until a player accumulates over 101 or 201 points. Winners of each round gain 0 points, making pool rummy comparatively more time-consuming.

Types of 21 Card Rummy Variants

Adhering to fundamental rummy principles, 21 Card Rummy distinguishes itself by dealing 21 cards to each player, demanding the formation of three pure sequences. Notably, this variant introduces a penalty system. Dropping out before playing a hand incurs a 30-point penalty, while post-hand dropouts result in a 75-point penalty. Unique to 21 Card Rummy is the use of jokers, with assigned upper and lower jokers corresponding to the cut-joker suit. Upper and Lower jokers can be used to complete impure sequences.

Gin Rummy 

Gin Rummy, a distinct version, accommodates 2-4 players and departs from the standard 13 and 21 Card Rummy by allotting 10 cards each for set and sequence creation. Winning doesn’t require a full set, and a player can “knock” with a point value below 10. Points hinge on the difference between the winner’s deadwood points and the opponent’s. Although 13 Card Rummy and 21 Card Rummy maintain greater popularity than Gin Rummy.

Contract Rummy 

Derived from Gin Rummy, Contract Rummy incorporates seven rounds, each necessitating specific sequence combinations. Complexity escalates with each round. The initial four rounds deal 10 cards per player, while the final three provide 12 cards. Contract Rummy’s core rules are akin to Gin Rummy, with minor variations.

Canasta 

Originating in Spain, Canasta embraces familiar rummy rules, yet considers Jokers and 2s as wild cards.

Rummikubh 

Blending Rummy and Mahjong elements, Rummikubh is well-liked in Asia and Europe. Employing 104 tiles akin to two decks of cards, players arrange 14 tiles to establish sets.

Oklahoma Rummy 

Closely resembling Gin Rummy, Oklahoma Rummy features players receiving only 7 cards, allowing the use of Jokers for impure sequences.

Kalooki Rummy

Originating in Jamaica, Kalooki Rummy assigns 9 cards to each player, and the participant with the lowest score claims victory.

500 Rummy

Popular in America, 500 Rummy accommodates 2-8 players. Also known as Pinochle or Persian Rummy, it employs rules similar to classic rummy. Victory is determined by accruing points, and the first player to reach 500 points wins.

Shanghai Rummy

Shanghai Rummy assigns 11 cards to each player and is typically played with 3-5 participants. Comparable to Contract Rummy, this variant incorporates 2 Spades and 2 Clubs as Jokers.

Dummy Rummy

Considered one of the simpler rummy variants, Dummy Rummy designates all 2s as jokers, augmenting the four standard jokers. A myriad of combinations can be formed in Dummy Rummy.

Conclusion

To sum it up, the world of rummy games offers a lot of variety and excitement. From the well-known 13 Card Rummy to the more complex 21 Card Rummy, each type brings its own unique style of play. Gin & Contract Rummy offer different strategies, while games like Canasta, Rummikubh, and Shanghai Rummy bring a global flavour.

As players explore these different games, they can enjoy trying out various tactics and improving their skills. Whether you’re new to rummy or experienced, these games provide lots of entertainment and a chance to have fun and strategize with friends. So, the world of rummy is waiting for you to dive in and enjoy the different challenges and thrills it has to offer. So download rummy app now and begin your rummy journey.