Vietnam is a country known for its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. But what many people may not know is that it also has a strong gaming culture, particularly when it comes to card exchange games. These games have been a popular pastime among locals for many years, with countless variations and versions across the country. However, if you’re new to Vietnam or just curious about these games, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
That’s why we, at gamedoithuongtst88, have put together this comprehensive guide to Vietnam’s best 8 card exchange games. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to expand your repertoire or a newbie wanting to learn more, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover the captivating world of Vietnamese card exchange games.
1. Tien Len (Thirteen)
Tien Len, also known as Thirteen, is arguably the most popular card game in Vietnam. It’s a fast-paced game that requires quick thinking and strategic planning. The game is played with four players, and the objective is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards.
Rules:
- The game is played with a deck of 52 cards, with no Jokers.
- Cards are ranked from low to high: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace, 2.
- Each player starts with 13 cards, and the remaining cards are placed in the middle to form the draw pile.
- The player with the 3 of Spades must begin by playing that card or any higher-ranking card from the same suit.
- Players take turns playing cards, and each turn must either beat the previous card played or pass.
- A player who passes cannot play until another player beats the previous card played.
- The game continues until one player runs out of cards, and they are declared the winner.
Variations:
- Big Two: A variation of Tien Len where the 2 of Spades is the highest-ranking card, and the 3 of Hearts is the second-highest.
- Fourteen: Played with a deck of 54 cards, including Jokers. The objective is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards, including the Jokers.
- Solo: A version of Tien Len where players play individually instead of in teams.
2. Ba Cây (Three Trees)
Ba Cây, also known as Three Trees, is a popular game among families and friends in Vietnam. It’s a great game for bonding and requires both luck and skill. The game is played with three to six players, and the objective is to have the highest hand at the end of each round.
Rules:
- The game is played with a deck of 52 cards, with no Jokers.
- Each player is dealt three cards, and the remaining cards are placed in the middle to form the draw pile.
- Cards are ranked from low to high: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace, 2.
- The player with the lowest-ranked card begins, and each turn must either match the previous card played or pass.
- If a player passes, they must put down one of their cards face-up on the table.
- The round ends when all players except one have passed.
- The winner of the round gets to take all the cards left on the table.
Variations:
- Phỏm: A variation of Ba Cây where players have to arrange their cards into sets or sequences to win.
- Xâm: A more challenging version of Ba Cây where players can steal cards from each other.
3. Liêng (Lieng)
Liêng, also known as Lieng, is a traditional Vietnamese card game that has been passed down for generations. It’s a simple game that can be played with two to four players, making it perfect for small gatherings or family game nights.
Rules:
- The game is played with a deck of 52 cards, with no Jokers.
- Cards are ranked from low to high: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace, 2.
- Each player starts with three cards, and the remaining cards are placed in the middle to form the draw pile.
- Players take turns playing cards, and the objective is to have the highest-ranking hand.
- The highest-ranking hand is three-of-a-kind, followed by straight flush, straight, flush, and pair.
- If no player has a winning hand, the player with the highest single card wins.
- If two players have the same hand, the suit of the highest card determines the winner.
Variations:
- Đường (The Road): A variation of Liêng where players try to have all three cards in the same suit.
- Thất Sát (Seven Kills): A more challenging version of Liêng where players must have seven consecutive cards in the same suit.
4. Bài Cào (Scratch Cards)
Bài Cào, also known as Scratch Cards, is a fun and addictive game that is loved by people of all ages in Vietnam. It’s a game of chance that requires no special skills, making it perfect for casual gatherings or a quick game during breaks.
Rules:
- The game is played with a deck of 52 cards, with no Jokers.
- Each player is dealt two cards, and the remaining cards are placed in the middle to form the draw pile.
- Players take turns guessing the suit or value of the top card of the draw pile.
- If a player guesses correctly, they win the round and can choose to keep playing or pass.
- If a player guesses incorrectly, they must pay a penalty to the winner.
- The game continues until all players have had a turn, and the player with the most wins is declared the winner.
Variations:
- Đuôi Hai (Tail Two): A variation of Bài Cào where players must guess if the top card of the draw pile is higher or lower than their current card.
- Thùng Phá Sảnh (Flush Beaten by Three-of-a-kind): A more challenging version of Bài Cào where players must guess the number of three-of-a-kinds in a round.
5. Mậu Binh (Tien Len)
Mậu Binh, also known as Tien Len, is a popular game not just in Vietnam but also in other Southeast Asian countries like Laos and Cambodia. It’s a strategic game that requires players to have quick thinking and careful planning. The game is played with four players, and the objective is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards.
Rules:
- The game is played with a deck of 52 cards, with no Jokers.
- Cards are ranked from low to high: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace, 2.
- Each player starts with 13 cards, and the remaining cards are placed in the middle to form the draw pile.
- The player with the 3 of Spades must begin by playing that card or any higher-ranking card from the same suit.
- Players take turns playing cards, and each turn must either beat the previous card played or pass.
- A player who passes cannot play until another player beats the previous card played.
- The game continues until one player runs out of cards, and they are declared the winner.
Variations:
- Tứ Sắc (Four Colors): A variation of Mậu Binh where players must have four cards of the same rank to win.
- Lượt Sóng (Wave): A more challenging version of Mậu Binh where players can trade cards with others.
6. Xì Dách (Blackjack)
Xì Dách, also known as Blackjack, is a popular card game played not just in Vietnam but also around the world. It’s a simple yet thrilling game that requires both luck and strategy. The game can be played with two to seven players, making it perfect for small gatherings or parties.
Rules:
- The game is played with a deck of 52 cards, with no Jokers.
- Cards are ranked from low to high: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace.
- The objective of the game is to have a hand with a total value of 21 or as close to 21 as possible without going over.
- Each player is dealt two cards, and the dealer also receives two cards, one face-up and one face-down.
- Players can choose to either hit (ask for another card) or stand (keep their current hand).
- If a player’s hand exceeds 21, they are bust and lose the round.
- The dealer must hit until their hand reaches a total value of 17 or higher.
- The player with the highest hand without going over 21 wins the round.
Variations:
- 5-Card Charlie: A variation of Xì Dách where players win automatically if they have five cards in their hand without going over 21.
- Doubling Down: A more challenging version of Xì Dách where players can double their bet after seeing their two initial cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most popular card game in Vietnam?
A: Tien Len, also known as Thirteen, is considered the most popular card game in Vietnam.
Q: Are these card games only played in Vietnam?
A: While these card games originate from Vietnam, some of them are also played in other Southeast Asian countries like Laos and Cambodia.
Q: Is there a specific age group that plays these card games?
A: These card games can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from young children to seniors.
Q: Can these card games be played online?
A: Yes, many websites and mobile apps offer Vietnamese card games that can be played online.
Q: Are these card games just for leisure, or do people gamble with them?
A: In Vietnam, these card games are mainly played for leisure, but some individuals may choose to place bets while playing with friends or family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vietnam’s best 8 card exchange games offer a unique blend of luck and strategy, making them enjoyable for players of all skill levels. From fast-paced games like Tien Len to more traditional games like Liêng, each game has its own set of rules and variations that add to the excitement and challenge. So next time you visit Vietnam or want to immerse yourself in the country’s culture, don’t forget to try your hand at these captivating card games. Who knows, you might just become a master player in no time.
