Thunee (2 player card game)

“Thunee” is a trick-taking card game popular in South Africa. Here’s how it’s played with 2 players:

Setup:

1. Use a standard 52-card deck.
2. Shuffle the deck and deal 10 cards to each player, one at a time.
3. Place the remaining cards in the center to form the draw pile.

Objective: The objective of Thunee is to win tricks containing specific high-ranking cards and to score points.

Gameplay:

1. Player 1 begins the game by leading a card from their hand.
2. Player 2 then plays a card of the same suit if possible. If not, they may play any card from their hand.
3. The player with the highest-ranking card of the leading suit wins the trick and leads the next one.
4. If a player cannot follow suit, they may play any card.
5. The game continues with players taking turns leading tricks until all cards have been played.

Scoring:

1. Point Cards: Certain cards have point values:
   • Ace of trumps: 11 points
   • Ten of trumps: 10 points
   • King, Queen, Jack of trumps: 3 points each
   • King, Queen, Jack of other suits: 1 point each
   • Ten of hearts: 3 points
2. Additional Points:
   • Players receive 10 points for each trick won.
   • If a player wins all 10 tricks (referred to as a “mala”), they receive an additional 100 points.
3. Winning: The first player to reach a predetermined point total, usually 150, wins the game.

Adaptation for 2 Players:

• In the original game, Thunee is typically played with 4 players, but it can be adapted for 2 players by modifying the rules.
• Each player is dealt 10 cards instead of the usual 13, making for a smaller deck and faster gameplay.
• The goal remains the same: to win tricks containing high-ranking cards and to accumulate points.

Turns:

• Player 1 starts the game and leads the first trick.
• Players take turns leading tricks until all cards have been played.

Summary: Thunee, a traditional South African card game, has been adapted for 2 players, offering an engaging and strategic experience. With modified rules and a smaller deck size, players aim to win tricks and accumulate points by playing high-ranking cards. Enjoy the challenge and excitement of Thunee in this 2 player card game!