The Game

After an initial ante each player is given two cards face down, and one card face up. The value of the cards is one or eleven for Aces (player’s choice), 1/2 for face cards, and face value for all other cards.

The Play

On each player’s first turn they may opt to take a card or stand with what they have. New cards are always dealt face-up. After each player has been given a chance to take a card or stand, a round of betting ensues. Once a player stands pat, they may no longer take cards in later rounds.

Ending the Game

Play ends when no players decide to take a card in a round. Low scores break ties (that is, a 6 ½ score beats a 7 1/2 ; a 26 1/2 beats a 27 ½); ties beyond that go to fewer cards. The players closest to 7 and to 27 split the pot.

What Wins

It is not uncommon for perfect 7 or 27 points hands to win, ½ point off is a decent stay. Remember the tie-breakers, though, if you take too many cards to hit your point, you are more likely to lose.

Irregularities

A player with Ace(s) can play both high and low hand simultaneously.