A Gambling Card Game Originating in France: Figgerits

Playing Cards

Card games have been around for centuries and have evolved into different variations over time. One of the most popular card games in the world is Figgerits, a gambling game that originated in France. The game involves a deck of cards and requires players to use their strategic skills to win.

History of Figgerits

France Map

Figgerits, also known as Fig, has been played in France since the 17th century. It is believed to have originated from the game of Karn??ffel, which was played in Germany in the 16th century. The game was introduced in France by soldiers returning from the Thirty Years War.

The name Figgerits comes from the French word "fig??," which means "fixed" or "immovable." The game was originally played with a deck of tarot cards, but it later evolved into a standard deck of playing cards.

How to Play Figgerits

Playing Cards Deck

Figgerits is played with a standard deck of 52 cards. The game can be played by two to six players. The objective of the game is to be the first player to get rid of all their cards.

The game begins with each player getting an equal number of cards. The remaining cards are placed in a pile in the center of the table, and the top card is turned face up. The player to the left of the dealer starts the game by playing a card of the same suit or value as the card in the center pile.

If a player does not have a card that matches the center card, they must draw a card from the pile. If they still cannot play a card, they must pass their turn to the next player. The game continues in this manner until one player has played all their cards.

Scoring in Figgerits

Scoreboard

The winner of each round is awarded points based on the cards left in their opponents' hands. The point value of each card is as follows:

  • Ace: 1 point
  • King: 0 points
  • Queen: 0 points
  • Jack: 1 point
  • 10, 9, 8, 7, 6: face value
  • 5, 4, 3, 2: 5 points

The first player to reach a predetermined number of points, typically 100, is declared the winner. If multiple players reach 100 points in the same round, the player with the highest score is declared the winner.

Variations of Figgerits

Variations Of Figgerits

Like many card games, Figgerits has evolved into different variations over time. One popular variation is called Oh Hell!, which is played with a deck of 52 cards and involves players bidding on the number of tricks they think they can win.

Another variation is called President, which is played with a standard deck of 52 cards and involves players trying to get rid of all their cards. The player who gets rid of all their cards first becomes the President, while the player who gets rid of all their cards last becomes the Scum.

Conclusion

Figgerits is a classic card game that has stood the test of time. Its popularity has spread beyond France and is now played in many countries around the world. Whether you're a seasoned card player or a beginner, Figgerits is a game that is easy to learn but challenging to master.