Watten (2 player card game)

“Watten” is a popular trick-taking card game from the Alps region, typically played by four players in teams of two. However, it can be adapted for 2 players. Here’s how to play:

Setup:

1. Use a standard 32-card German deck, which includes cards from 7 to Ace in each suit.
2. Shuffle the deck thoroughly and deal 6 cards to each player, one at a time. Place the remaining cards face-down in the center to form the draw pile.

Objective: The objective of Watten is to win tricks containing valuable cards and score points.

Gameplay:

1. Turns:

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

2. Announcement:

   • Before the game begins, players can announce which suit will be the trump suit for the round. If an announcement is made, the chosen suit becomes the trump suit for that round, and cards of that suit rank higher than cards of other suits.

3. Playing Cards:

   • Player 1 leads the first trick by playing a card face-up from their hand.
   • Player 2 must follow suit if possible. If not, they can play any card.
   • The player who played the highest card of the leading suit, or the highest trump card if trumps were announced, wins the trick.
   • The winner of the trick leads the next one.

4. Scoring:

   • In Watten, scoring occurs based on the cards won in tricks.
   • The game typically consists of several rounds, with the winner of each round scoring points based on the cards they won in tricks.
   • The specific scoring system may vary depending on the region or variation being played. Typically, certain cards have point values:
     • 10s: 10 points each
     • Aces: 11 points each
     • Kings: 4 points each
     • Queens: 3 points each
     • Jacks: 2 points each
     • 9s: 0 points
   • The first player to reach a predetermined score, often 15 or 21 points, wins the game.

Adaptation for 2 Players:

• In the original game, Watten involves four players in teams. However, for 2 players, the game has been adapted to be played individually.
• The rules for announcing trumps, playing cards, and scoring remain the same as in the original game.

Turns:

• Player 1 starts the game and takes the first turn, announcing trumps and leading the first trick.
• Players continue taking turns, playing tricks and scoring points until one player reaches the winning score.

Summary: Watten, adapted for 2 players, provides an engaging and strategic experience where players compete to win valuable tricks and score points. With simplified rules and dynamic gameplay, it’s an enjoyable choice for a 2 player card game!