Cards
A game for 2 or more people, ideal for those all-too-common situations when you have agreed that playing a card game would be a good idea, but are unable to agree on which one.

Each player thinks of a card game, and asks the dealer for as many cards as are required for them to play that game. Players take turns to play one turn of their chosen game, sticking as closely as possible to the rules of that game. The game is won by the first player who manages to 'win' by the rules of whatever game they have chosen.

Strategy: Beginners tend to opt for the comedy option of Snap, which can indeed be particularly effective against players of Rummy who are required to place sets of cards down, but it is usually impossible for them to obtain all the cards and claim a 'win' first. Pontoon is often a good choice, since relatively few cards are required to reach 21, but there is the danger of going 'broke'. 5 Card Poker is also a strong choice (and bets are relatively safe if you are the only one gambling) but do not be reckless, many a good poker hand has lost to a player of gin rummy who has put down 2 'three of a kind's before you have given them their second opportunity to raise you. Hearts is a strong choice against Poker players, since you can take all 3 of their cards and give them 3 bad ones. Patience games are an interesting option, and can (with luck) win in a single turn, but this strategy can be thwarted by Snap players removing your cards, or by rummy players declaring themselves winners by virtue of having no cards left.
( Andy_R At the third stroke, the time will be precisely, Tue 30 Mar 2004, 15:10, Reply)