How To Play Three Thirteen Card Game (Rules)

Three Thirteen is a fast-paced, rummy-style card game perfect for two or more players. It’s played over eleven rounds, starting with each player getting just three cards and adding one card each round until you’re holding thirteen in the final round. The goal is to build sets and runs while staying one step ahead of your opponents. The game is simple to play but keeps you hooked with every hand. No wonder it’s a favorite at game nights. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Three Thirteen – from how it works, the objectives, and a step-by-step guide to playing like a pro.

What Is the Three Thirteen Card Game?

Three Thirteen is a fun variation of Rummy that can be played over 11 rounds. This game works best with two or more players and generally uses two standard 52-card decks, including Jokers. Your aim should be to finish the game with the lowest total score.

Every round starts with a set number of cards to be dealt. The game begins with three cards in round one, and you will get one card each round until the thirteenth round.

In each round, the card that has the same numbers as the dealt cards is considered wild. For instance, 3s are wild in round one, 4s are wild in round two, and so on. Jokers are always wild cards.

You can take turns with the other players, picking a card and discarding one to form sets or runs. A player “goes out” when they use all their cards. When the game round ends, player left with cards in their hand will be declared to have penalty points. After the last round, the player with the fewest points wins.

Also Read: How To Play Canasta Card Game?

How to Play Three Thirteen Cards

Three Thirteen is a Rummy-style card game for 2-4 players, using one or more standard decks depending on the number of participants. Your ultimate goal is to finish with the lowest score by forming sets and runs of cards across several rounds.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at the game’s rules and setup, as well as how to form the deck.

Three Thirteen Game Objective

The objective of the Three Thirteen game is to reduce your points by creating valid sets and runs. You can earn points for leftover cards at the end of every round. This game is played over 11 rounds, with the number of cards dealt increasing from three to thirteen.

3 – 13 Deck Setup

Three Thirteen is played using a standard Anglo-American deck of 52 cards. This deck comprises four suits: spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs, each having 13 cards. The game requires one or more decks, depending on the number of players.

Here’s a breakdown:

2 to 4 Players: Two standard decks of 52 cards

5+ Players: Add 1 deck for every two additional players

Setting Up the Deck

The first step is to decide how many decks you will need. After assembling the necessary cards, the next step is to shuffle them. During the initial setup, it is crucial to set aside wild cards or jokers for each round. This changes every round, starting with threes as wild in round 1 and ending with Kings as wild in the final eleventh round. The use of wild cards adds an interesting twist to the game strategy.

Also Read: How To Play Gin Rummy Game?

Here’s a quick rundown:

Determine the Number of Decks: One deck for 2-4 players.
Shuffle Cards Thoroughly: No discernible pattern should be visible.
Select Wild Cards/Jokers: Changes every round – threes are wild in round 1, while Kings are wild in round 11.
Inspect the Deck: A quick deck inspection before starting the game ensures that all necessary cards are present.

Understanding the Rounds

In Three Thirteen, each round increases in complexity as the number of cards dealt grows from 3 in Round 1 to 13 in Round 11. Players must adjust their strategies to adapt to new wild cards in each round, from threes in Round 1 to kings in Round 11.

Key Round Strategy:

Player Turn: Each turn involves drawing a card (from the deck or discard pile) and discarding one. Players can lay down melds (sets or runs); however, in standard rules, once placed, melds can not be rearranged.
Early Rounds: You can easily form quick melds and avoid penalties if you have fewer cards in hand. So, it is advisable to focus on completing low-value sets to keep your score down.
Later Rounds: With more cards, your game strategy will deepen. You can use wild cards wisely, but always beware of high-value cards that may remain unmelded, as they can increase your score significantly.

Round Challenges:

Keep track of other players’ discards to anticipate their strategies.
Effectively use wild cards as they change each round.

Round Penalties:

Unmelded cards incur penalties, with values ranging from 1 point (Aces) to 10 points (Kings).
Minimize holding high-value cards towards the end of each round to avoid costly penalties.

This progression makes Three Thirteen an engaging, strategic card game that rewards careful planning.

Also Read: How To Play Contract Rummy Game?

The Role of the Dealer

In each round of Three Thirteen, the dealer plays a crucial part in setting up the game for all players involved. The dealer is generally chosen randomly or by mutual agreement among players at the start of play. Their primary responsibility is to shuffle and deal cards according to the rules for each round.

After distributing the cards, the dealer moves to the next player in a clockwise direction. A good dealer must ensure fair play is observed and that there are no mistakes that can slow down the game.

Although it might not seem so initially, there’s more to being a successful dealer than just handing out cards. It requires vigilance, precision, tact, and, above all else, integrity.

Dealing the Cards

The act of dealing cards forms a crucial pivot, with each round bringing in a different number of cards on the table. The dealer’s responsibilities are manifold and revolve around ensuring player fairness and card equality.

These encompass various deal techniques to ensure that each player receives their initial hand from a well-shuffled deck using effective shuffle methods. A dealer distributes cards clockwise, starting from the player left of the dealer, and continues until all players have received their due share as per the round requirements.

Also Read: How To Play Dummy Rummy?

The following points encapsulate the basics of card dealing and rotation for Three Thirteen:

Each round has a unique number of dealt cards: Round 1 gives three cards, while Round 11 deals thirteen.
The dealer rotates after every round in a clockwise direction, enhancing deal rotation dynamics.
Shuffling before each round ensures the game is fair and the card order unpredictable.
Initial hands are distributed one at a time; once everyone has their stipulated count, the remaining ones form the stockpile for gameplay.
Because the dealer changes every round, and every player also gets the chance to play first at some point in the game.

To master Three Thirteen, it’s important to understand how the number of cards can affect your strategy. Fewer cards make speedy discarding viable, whereas later rounds require thorough planning and watching for wildcards, which can change each round.

You must also pay attention to when to draw from the stock deck, giving you incremental advantages over less-informed opponents. This makes it a seemingly simple game, quite engrossingly complex!

3 – 13 Gameplay: Making Melds

In Three Thirteen, your goal should be to make melds. You should have a deep understanding of card placement and picking pairs. A meld consists of a set or sequence of 3 or more cards of the same rank or consecutive ranks from any suit, respectively.

The wild card can substitute for any other in making up a meld. But you must be careful, as the penalty points are calculated based on what they represent. These can range from three (when threes are wild) to ten (for Kings). Strategically creating your hand with these sequences or sets reduces your overall penalty point count.

The action thickens with Discarding Cards, a critical component since every turn ends with one card being discarded into the discard pile. Keep an eye on your opponents’ discarded cards; they might inadvertently help you build your Strategic Melds! Also, remember that playing off another player’s existing meld isn’t allowed, so focus solely on creating your combinations.

There’s no limit to how many different Meld Varieties you can make within your hand while remembering that each round has an increasing number of cards dealt. Sequence Building adds depth and excitement to this game, emphasizing the Importance of Melds beyond just reducing penalty points—they also bring victory closer.

Build longer runs or larger sets using wild cards strategically—yes, even if it means keeping higher-value cards when kings become wild—to maximize their potential use across multiple rounds.

Also Read: How To Play Ten Cards Game

3 – 13 Wild Cards Explained

In the Three Thirteen card game, wild cards play a crucial role in forming winning hands. Each round features a different wild card that can substitute for any card needed to create sets or runs.

How Wild Cards Work:

Changing Wild Cards: The wild card changes each round, matching the number of cards dealt (e.g., 3s are wild in Round 1, 4s in Round 2, and so on).
Strategic Importance: Wild cards offer flexibility in forming melds, allowing players to complete hands quickly and reduce penalty points.
Balance and Timing: While wild cards can turn a losing hand into a winning one, players must balance using them immediately or saving them for future rounds.

Wild cards shape the strategy and pace of each round, making them vital to winning the game.

How Wild Cards Work?

In Three Thirteen, the wild card can change in every round. In the game, you can find a unique wild card for each of the 11 rounds. The number of cards dealt in that round determines these wild cards.

Here’s a detailed explanation of how the Wild Cards work:

In each of the 11 rounds of this game, a specific rank of cards becomes wild. It means you can use a wild card to represent any other card when forming groups or sequences during that round. You even have the option to create a set comprised entirely of wild cards if you choose to do so.

Also Read: 7 Card Rummy Rules & Combinations

Round-by-Round Explanation:

In the first round, Threes are wild. It means that any three can be used as a substitute for any other card in your hand to form valid combinations or sets.
In the second round, Fours are wild. Now, any four can serve as a wildcard, allowing for greater flexibility in creating valid card combinations.
For the third round, Fives are wild. This rule continues the pattern, offering players the ability to use 5s as wild cards during this round.
In the fourth round, Sixes are wild, enabling players to use 6s as wild cards for more strategic gameplay.
During the fifth round, Sevens are wild. It adds another layer of unpredictability, as Sevens can now substitute for other cards.
8s are wild in the sixth round, expanding the range of cards that can be used as wild cards and potentially changing the dynamics of the game.
In round seven, Nines become wild cards, allowing for even more versatile combinations and strategies.
The eighth round designates Tens as wild cards, offering a new set of possibilities for players.
For the ninth round, the Jacks are wild, introducing another level of strategy and variation.
In the tenth round, Queens become wild, mixing up the dynamics and requiring players to adapt their strategies.
Finally, in the eleventh and last round, the Kings are wild, completing the cycle of wild cards. It adds a final layer of excitement and variety to the game.

Strategic Depth

The presence of wild cards in each round makes the game more engaging, as players must adapt their strategies to the changing wild card ranks. It also introduces an element of surprise and skill, as players need to decide when and how to use wild cards to their advantage.

Also Read: How To Play 13 Card Rummy Game?

Three Thirteen Variations

Three Thirteen is highly adaptable, with various alternate versions and rule modifications available worldwide. Some unique variations introduce new elements, such as additional wild cards or modified scoring systems, making each game a fresh experience. Cultural adaptations, which reflect regional differences in playing card games, add spice to the game.

The table below showcases the different types of variations that you should know:

Variation	Commonly Documented?	Description	Penalties
Jokers as Wild Cards	Yes	Jokers act as extra wilds.	20 points if left in hand.
Ace Value Variations	Yes	Aces are worth 13, 15, or 20 points.	Corresponding high value if left in hand.
High or Low Aces	Yes	Aces are usable at either end of a run.	15 points if left in hand.
Reduced Scoring for Face Cards	Yes	J/Q/K score only 10 points each.	10 points if left in hand.
Sets Comprising Only Wild Cards	Yes	Sets may be formed entirely from wilds.	Usual wild-card penalty.
Extra Rounds with Special Wild Cards	Rare	Adds “Fourteens” and “Fifteens” rounds with extra wilds.	Usual wild-card penalty.
Jokers as Discards and Zero Points	Rare	Jokers can be discarded onto any pile.	0 points if left in hand.
Ascending and Descending Rounds	Rare	Game runs 3→13→3 cards per hand.	Standard penalties apply.
Discard Pile Choice for Players	Rare	Players choose from multiple discard piles.	Standard penalties apply.
Redemption Round	Rare	Extra play after someone goes out.	0 points if you go out here.
Double Points Rounds	Rare	Certain rounds (e.g., 11–13) have double scores.	Doubled penalties in those rounds.
Penalties for Incorrect Going Out	Rare	Going out incorrectly triggers an extra penalty.	+20 points.
Double-Naughts Rule	Rare	Hand replayed if all scores are zero.	None (hand reset).
Fixed Negative Scores for First Player	Rare	The First player out gets a negative score bonus.	-5, -10, or wild card value.

Also Read: How to Play the Panguingue Card Game

Three Thirteen Scoring System

The crux of Three Thirteen rests on Negative Scoring and Score-reduction tactics. Each card in a player’s hand at the end of a round contributes to their overall penalty points unless it has been used in a meld, with values ranging from 1 point (for an Ace) up to 10 points (for Kings).

Wild cards are exceptions; if they remain unmelded by the game’s conclusion, they carry a hefty price tag of 15 penalty points each. The artful practice of managing one’s score involves myriad strategies designed to minimize risk and maximize benefits:

Reducing Penalty Points

Aim for low-numbered cards when picking from the deck or discard pile, as these contribute fewer penalty points.
Utilize wildcards wisely! Although they can be invaluable tools for creating melds, remember their high value if left unmelded.

Maximizing Bonus Points

“Going out”, i.e., being the first to get rid of all your cards in any given round, affords you bonus points – specifically, subtracting ten from your score.
Exploit rounds where lower-value cards are designated as wild since these offer opportunities for substantial score reduction without risking large penalties.

Finally, there is no one-size-fits-all method of scorekeeping in Three Thirteen – different groups may prefer different methods. Some people may prefer traditional pen-and-paper record-keeping, while others might choose digital solutions such as mobile apps or online platforms.

Regardless of your preferred Scorekeeping Method, maintaining an accurate tally is crucial not just for determining who wins but also for informing players’ ongoing decisions about which cards to keep and which to shed throughout each round. Bear in mind that, unlike most games where the aim is attaining a High Score, success here hinges on finessing your way to the lowest Player’s Score possible.

Also Read: How To Play Knock Rummy Card Game

How to Win the Three Thirteen Game

Winning at Three Thirteen requires a blend of strategy, timing, and reading your opponents. Here are the key tactics to secure victory:

Winning Strategies:

Minimize Penalty Points: You should discard high-value cards (like Kings) early, especially if you can’t meld them. Also, you must keep low-value cards to minimize penalties.
Maximize Wild Card Use: Each round has a different wild card; so, use them strategically to create sets or runs, boosting your chances of going out first.
Read Opponents: You should pay attention to the cards other players discard to predict their strategies. You can bluff when needed and anticipate their next moves.
Adapt to Round Complexity: In later rounds with more cards, always focus on creating bigger melds and reducing the number of unmelded cards in hand.
Bluff and Observe: You can gauge opponents’ risk-taking and strategy shifts as they react to changing conditions.

By mastering both the numerical and psychological aspects of the game, you can outplay your opponents and emerge victorious in Three Thirteen.

Three Thirteen Card Game Strategy Tips

The following tips you should follow while playing the Three Thirteen card game:

Bluffing techniques are crucial in a game like Three Thirteen, where you have to keep your intentions hidden while making others reveal their strategies. A shrewd player will know when to bluff about going out or holding onto wild cards to confuse opponents.
Additionally, Strategic Discarding plays a vital role as it involves getting rid of high penalty point cards that don’t fit into potential melds early on in each round.
For Meld Optimization, it’s wise to aim for runs rather than sets due to the fluid nature of wild cards throughout the rounds of play. Focusing on building consecutive numbers within a suit allows you more flexibility with what can be considered “wild.”
Predicting Moves comes next: Pay attention! Keep track of which cards are being picked up from the discard pile by opponents because it gives away information about possible melds they may have in hand or are trying to build.
Moreover, your Round Strategy should involve aggressive play during earlier rounds when fewer cards mean lower risk, then shift towards defensive play in later rounds when higher card counts increase penalty points if left unmelded at end-of-round scoring.
Reading Opponents is essential, too. Observe their reactions upon drawing certain cards—do they seem pleased or upset? This could hint towards what they hold or need. Lastly, Card Counting provides a great advantage, especially in late rounds. Knowing what remains in the draw deck helps estimate the odds of obtaining needed cards.
Remember, Three Thirteen is not just about the luck of the draw but also how skillfully you can exploit that luck. Therefore, understanding these strategic insights could significantly improve your gameplay and chances of winning.

Also Read: How to Play Rummikub?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Three Thirteen be played with more than four players?

Yes, Three Thirteen can be played with more than four players. However, you’ll need to add an additional deck of cards for every two extra players. This is done to ensure there are enough cards for fair card distribution during each round. Remember, though, that adding more players might change the game dynamics and winning probabilities due to increased player interaction.

Are there wild cards in Three Thirteen?

Yes, Jokers and deuces (2s) serve as wild cards, allowing players to use them strategically.

Can a player “go out” in the middle of the 3 – 13 game?

Yes, a player can “go out” by melding all their cards, signaling the end of the round. The last discard must be part of a valid set or run.

What happens in the 3-13 final round?

In the final round of three thirteen, once a player reaches the agreed-upon point goal, every other player gets one more turn to improve their hands.

How is the winner determined in three thirteen?

The player with the lowest score at the end of the final round is declared the winner of the three thirteen. If a player reaches the point goal exactly, they win instantly.

Conclusion

Three Thirteen is a card game that offers a unique mix of strategy and chance, ensuring endless entertainment for players. As you move through the 11 thrilling rounds, your understanding of meld-making and wild cards deepens, which intensifies the intrigue of the game. To master Three Thirteen, you need more than just knowledge of the rules; it demands strategic planning and quick thinking. Therefore, whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, remember that practice coupled with clever strategy is key to winning this exhilarating card game.

Explore the game by downloading our Rummy app for Android or iOS. Practice in free Rummy tournaments and take advantage of amazing bonus offers. Start your journey and win big today!

Additional resources you might like

How to Play Liverpool Rummy Game?

How To Play Continental Rummy?

How to Play Shanghai Rummy

Conquian Card Game Rules And Gameplay

How To Play Kalooki Card Game

How to Play Rummy 500?