Understanding the Basics of Gin Rummy

Gin Rummy is a classic variation of rummy that began in 1909. It's very simple to learn and can be executed with just two people, making it a relaxing game to play online, whether you're enjoying it for free or for real money.

Getting Started

The game itself uses nothing more than a standard deck, and usually just 2 opponents. Individuals draw to determine the dealer and both receive 10 cards each. Those that are remaining are placed face down on the table as the stock pile and the top one is turned face up beside it, forming the discard pile. Whoever didn't deal makes the first move. He or she may take the one that is face up from the discard pile, draw from the deck, or can pass the turn back to the dealer.

Understanding the Objective

The object of the game is to create melds, or sets, within your hand, using as many of your 10 cards as possible. These sets may consist of either 3 or 4 that are either all the same value (3 kings) or that fall consecutively within the same suit (2, 3, and 4 of diamonds). Those that don't belong to a set are referred to as deadwood and will detract from your score. The round is over when someone matches all their cards and calls 'gin' or if they choose to knock instead.

Getting Started

Players alternate turns until someone gins or knocks, or until there are only two left in the stock pile. If this happens, the hand is considered a tie and no scores are calculated. On each turn, a person can take the top one from the discard pile or they may draw from the stock pile. The turn ends when the individual discards something from their own hand, but taking the face up card and discarding it in the same turn is not allowed in Gin Rummy.

What Is Knocking?

The most points are scored when someone calls 'gin', but more often than not, players can't eliminate all of their deadwood. In this case, a person may choose to knock and close the hand. The total number of deadwood points must be less than 10 for this to happen. When you knock, your opponent has the opportunity to get rid of their own deadwood by adding to your melds, if possible. Then, you will both calculate the value of your unmatched cards and the person with the least points wins the round.

Calculating Scores

Each round is scored individually and added to a running total. When a person calls 'gin', 25 points are added to their total. Scoring after a knock depends on the value of each opponent's deadwood. These count at face value, with an Ace receiving 1 point and 10s, Jacks, Queens and Kings scoring 10. The person with the lowest deadwood value wins the hand and scores the difference between his or her points and the point value of what is left in the opponent's hand.

The next time you want to play an online skill game, give Gin Rummy a try. You're sure to enjoy it, whether you play for real money or just for fun.