Vazhushal (2 player card game)

“Vazhushal,” also known as “Vazhushal 21,” is a traditional Indian card game typically played with multiple players. However, it can be adapted for 2 players. Here’s how to play:

Setup:

1. Use a standard 52-card deck.
2. Shuffle the deck thoroughly and deal 5 cards to each player, one at a time.
3. Place the remaining cards face-down in the center to form the draw pile. Turn the top card face-up beside it to start the discard pile.

Objective: The objective of Vazhushal is to be the first player to score 21 points or more by collecting cards of the same suit.

Gameplay:

1. Turns:

   • Player 1 starts the game and takes the first turn.
   • Players take turns clockwise throughout the game.

2. Drawing and Playing Cards:

   • On their turn, a player must either draw a card from the draw pile or the discard pile.
   • If a player draws a card from the discard pile, they must use it to form a set immediately. If they draw from the draw pile, they may choose to either use it immediately or discard it.
   • A set consists of 3 or more cards of the same suit. Players can only form sets during their turn.
   • Once a player has formed a set, they must place it face-up in front of them.

3. Scoring:

   • After forming a set, the player counts the value of the cards in the set.
   • Number cards (2-10) are worth their face value.
   • Face cards (Jacks, Queens, and Kings) are worth 10 points each.
   • Aces are worth 1 point.
   • If a player’s total score exceeds 21 points, they are “busted” and must discard their set.
   • The game continues until one player scores exactly 21 points or more.

4. Winning:

   • The first player to score exactly 21 points or more wins the game.
   • If both players exceed 21 points in the same round, the player with the highest score below 21 wins.

Adaptation for 2 Players:

• In the original game, Vazhushal involves more players and complex strategies. However, for 2 players, the game has been adapted to focus on forming sets and reaching 21 points.
• The rules for drawing, playing cards, and scoring remain the same as in the original game.

Turns:

• Player 1 starts the game and takes the first turn, drawing and forming sets as described.
• Players continue taking turns until one player scores exactly 21 points or more.

Summary: Vazhushal, adapted for 2 players, offers an engaging and strategic experience where players compete to form sets and score 21 points. With simplified rules and dynamic gameplay, it’s a fantastic choice for a 2 player card game!