Card games have been popular among the masses for many centuries now. Over the years, many card games have come and gone. However, rummy is one of the few card games that have stood their ground in terms of popularity.
According to Playship, the rummy card game requires players to arrange cards into sets and sequences and make valid declarations. In most variants of rummy, every player is dealt 13 cards at the beginning of matches, using which they have to meld cards into sets and sequences.
Enthusiasts can indulge in rummy games in two ways – in the orthodox way, i.e., by using physical cards, or virtually by using online rummy platforms. Playing rummy virtually means connecting with opponents across the globe and participating in multiplayer tournaments whenever you want. Also, you can play rummy online real money and earn lucrative prizes.
Many people indulge in rummy games thanks to its simple and easy-to-understand rules. Sadly, most of them do not know much about the game.
Here are some of the most interesting facts about the rummy game every enthusiast should know:
- Rummy’s Name Has Been Derived From Poker
The popular card game’s name is believed to be derived from rum poker. In the U.K., the term “Rum” is deemed slang for peculiar or off. Besides this, rummy games were played with a common wager, according to which the loser of the game had to buy the winner drinks, or more specifically, rum.
Now, the rules have changed. Drinking rum or any type of alcoholic drink is not a compulsory part of rummy games.
- Rummy is a Skill-Based Game Where Luck Plays a Negligible Role
A common myth about the rummy card game is that it is a luck-based card game where the outcome depends on chance. However, it is the exact opposite. The only small role luck plays in rummy games is when the cards are dealt to players. It is perhaps the only aspect where players have no control.
Besides that, rummy is a skill-based game entirely wherein players need to come up with strategies and make the right moves to make sure that they win matches. Moreover, the primary objective of players in rummy games is to meld cards into sets and sequences and make valid declarations. Hence, rummy is a skill-based card game where luck plays a negligible role.
- Rummy is Numerous Centuries Old
Even though the origins of the popular card game are still not known, most people believe that the game originated in the 19th century in Spain. It became popular there, and its craze spread all around the globe later.
The game is believed to be derived from French Poker. However, some people believe that the card game has been derived from a Chinese puzzle game called Mahjong. Besides this, the game is also said to be related to the Japanese Hanafuda, which is a deck of 48 cards divided into 12 suits of four cards each.
- The Rummy Card Game Has Over 50 Variations
As opposed to other skill-based card games, which only have a handful of variants, rummy has over 60 variations, each of which features numerous distinguishing aspects that facilitate individuals to differentiate between each of them.
Some variants of rummy are further divided into sub-categories. For instance, classic rummy features diverse variations such as Striker Rummy, Deals Rummy, Pool Rummy, etc. Other prominent rummy variants include Gin rummy, Oklahoma rummy, etc. Thanks to the card game having so many variations, enthusiasts get to choose from multiple options.
- Indulging in Rummy Offers Numerous Benefits
It is a common belief that rummy is an addictive game that individuals should not play. However, it is not true in any way. In fact, indulging in rummy offers numerous proven benefits to players. Here are some of the most prominent benefits of indulging in rummy:
- It aids players in enhancing their memory.
- It facilitates them to increase their concentration and focus.
- It improves their hand-eye coordination.
- It helps them relieve stress and let go of anxiety.
- It instils a sense of healthy competition.
- It develops their confidence and decision-making skills.
- Rummy is Not a Complicated Card Game
It is a common belief that rummy has complicated rules that makes it harder for people to indulge in rummy games. However, it is not true. Even though the card game features an initial learning curve and requires practice, it features simple and easy rules, making it easier for individuals to start playing.
Each variant of the rummy card game features different rules. Thankfully, they are very simple, and thus, every individual can get started with rummy by learning about the card game’s fundamentals. To get better at the game, players must practice and garner experience.
- Rummy Cards Have Significantly Evolved Over the Years
Contrary to what many believe, the cards used in offline rummy games have undergone numerous modifications over the years to reach their current form.
Back in the day, rummy cards were made manually by individuals, i.e., they used bare hands to create cards. Besides this, every card was painted using actual colors. However, with the evolution of printing, handmade cards got replaced with printed cards. Now, rummy matches are played using a standard deck of printed cards. Even some experienced rummy players do not know all about the card game’s facts. However, any individual who wishes to get better at rummy should have an idea about the game and some of the important facts related to it.
