Card games are games that use playing cards as the primary device for gameplay. These games can be played by two or more players and often involve elements of strategy, skill, and chance. The objective of card games can vary widely, including achieving a specific score, forming certain combinations of cards, or defeating opponents by depleting their resources or capturing their cards.
Card games can be categorized into several types, including trick-taking games (e.g., Bridge, Spades), shedding games (e.g., Uno, Crazy Eights), and matching games (e.g., Rummy, Go Fish). Many card games also incorporate betting aspects, as seen in games like Poker, where players wager on the outcome based on their hands.
Card games can be played with standard decks of cards, such as the 52-card French deck, or specialized decks designed specifically for particular games. The rules and complexity can range from simple games suitable for children to intricate games that require deeper strategic thinking. Card games can be played casually for entertainment or in competitive settings, often involving tournaments and professional play.