Want to try out a rummy variant that is based on the concept of elimination? Read further to know more about the highly engaging pool rummy game.
Rummy is one of the most loved card games across the world. And the switch to online rummy games has enhanced its popularity manifold with a lot of players joining in as this game is quick to learn and play. There are many popular 13-card rummy game variants such as pool rummy, points rummy, and deals rummy. You will find these three rummy variants on most of the popular online rummy apps, and each variant brings something different to the table.
The pool rummy game is based on the concept of elimination – players who reach a certain threshold of points at the table are eliminated one-by-one. And yes, points in most rummy variants (including pool rummy) carry negative value. In fact, the winner at every juncture (every deal) is the one who has zero or least points. In this article, let us go through some of the interesting rummy facts that make this 13-card pool rummy variant highly engaging and fun to play.
Elimination-based Objective
The objective of the pool rummy game is to push opponents to reach a certain threshold of points (101 or 201). Once any player scores those many points, he/she gets eliminated from the game. So, the objective is not to score more points (as they carry negative value), but to score minimal points (zero or least points on the table) at the end of every deal. Even if you cannot win, you need to ensure that minimal points get assigned to you so that your score doesn’t reach the threshold. If you manage to survive till the end without scoring 101 or 201 points, and all other players get eliminated, then, you get declared as the winner.
Why is it Called ‘Pool’ Rummy?
It is one of those rummy variations where you join the table by paying a fixed fee, and all the other players are expected to do the same. This fixed fee from each player is combined to create the overall prize pool. Thus, as everyone pools the fees together for the ultimate prize, this rummy variant is known as pool rummy.
Number of Players, Decks, Cards, and Jokers
You can play this game between two to six players on the table using your preferred rummy app. Each player is dealt with 13 cards at the start of the game by making use of one or two decks of 52 cards (with additional printed jokers). On certain tables, you might see a wildcard joker also being used in the game – by picking a random card from the deck and announcing it as the wildcard joker. The use of jokers adds some more unpredictability as you play a rummy game.
Method of Play
Once you get the 13 cards at the start, you need to meld them into valid sequences and sets. Key pointers to keep in mind are:
- You need to mandatorily form one pure sequence (of three to four cards) without any printed joker.
- You need to form one more sequence (of three to four cards) with or without any joker.
- You can form sequences or sets using the rest of the cards.
- The one who manages to complete melding of cards first becomes the winner.
- Scoring of points happens after every deal.
- You do not have to play every deal till the end as you have the option to drop the game initially for 20 points or later 40 points if the cards are not favourable.
Points Calculation
The winner of every deal gets 0, and he/she has to make sure to be the last man standing. All other players (who don’t manage to win) are allocated points for each of the cards that do not fit into any valid sequences or sets. Each face card (A, K, Q, and J) carries 10 points, while all the other cards carry points as per their corresponding numerical value. This calculation of points reveals the score of each player and the one who crosses 101 or 201 points gets eliminated. At the end of the game, if you manage to escape crossing 101 or 201 points (based on the table), you emerge as the winner of the entire game. Such kind of interesting points calculation makes pool rummy one of the most engaging rummy types.
Final Thoughts
The above rummy facts about the pool rummy game variant make it highly interesting. You can play this rummy game when you have a good amount of time on hand, as it can go long as compared to points rummy. So, what are you waiting for? Download the MPL app now and start playing pool rummy!
