Tute

GAME INFO

Tute is a classic trick-taking card game belonging to the Ace-Ten family, renowned for its strategic depth and engaging gameplay. It originated in Italy, where it was affectionately known as Tutti. During the 19th century, the game's popularity surged, spreading across the border to Spain, where it swiftly became one of the most cherished and frequently played card games in the country. The game is typically played with a 40-card deck comprising traditional Spanish or Italian playing cards, also known as naipes. This deck excludes the number cards two to six, focusing instead on the higher-value cards that add complexity and excitement to each hand. Each player is dealt an initial eight cards, setting the stage for a round of intense bidding and trick-taking. The non-dealer has the honor of leading any card to initiate the first trick. The second player must, if possible, follow suit and aim to win the trick by playing the highest card of the led suit. However, if the second player is devoid of cards in the led suit but holds one or more trump cards, they are obligated to play a trump to try and capture the trick. Only in the event that the second player lacks both the led suit and trumps can they play any other card in their hand. The trick is ultimately won by the highest trump card played, or, in the absence of trumps, by the highest card of the led suit. Once a trick is decided, the winner takes the first card from the stock, known as the talon, while the loser draws the second. This process continues, with the trick winner having the option to make any necessary announcements regarding their hand before leading the next trick. A crucial aspect of the game is that a player (or a pair) who wins at least one trick gains the ability to declare specific card combinations, which can significantly enhance their round points. One of the most sought-after declarations is tute (all), which is achieved by a player who collects all four Kings. Making this declaration automatically concludes the round in favor of the collector, securing them victory. Another powerful declaration is las cuarenta (forty), which requires both the King and Knight of the trump suit. Successfully declaring this combination awards the player an additional 40 round points. Alternatively, holding the King and Knight of any other suit allows a player to declare veinte (twenty), adding 20 round points to their score. These declarations not only add to the strategic layer of the game but also inject a sense of anticipation and excitement as players strive to assemble these powerful combinations.