What is Burraco?
Before we dive into the number of decks used in Burraco, let’s first understand the game itself. Burraco is a card game that originated in Italy and is typically played with 2 to 6 players. The objective of the game is to form sets and sequences of cards in order to score points. It is a variation of Canasta, another popular card game.
Traditional Burraco
In traditional Burraco, two decks of playing cards are used. Each deck consists of 54 cards, including the jokers. This brings the total number of cards to 108. The game is usually played with 4 players, forming two partnerships. Each partnership receives 11 cards at the beginning of the game, and the top card from the deck is turned face-up to start the discard pile. Traditional Burraco does not require any additional decks beyond the two standard ones.
Burraco with Four Decks
Some players prefer to add more decks to the game to increase the number of cards in play. This variation of Burraco uses four decks, resulting in a total of 216 cards. The additional decks add more complexity and strategic possibilities to the game. However, it is important to note that this variation is not as widely played as traditional Burraco and may not be suitable for beginners.
Burraco with Three Decks
Another common variation of Burraco involves playing with three decks. This version is often preferred by players who want a slightly longer game or have fewer players. With three decks, the total number of cards in play is 162. This variation still retains the essence of Burraco while offering a different gameplay experience.
Whether you prefer traditional Burraco or the variations with more or fewer decks, the game offers plenty of entertainment and strategic challenges. The number of decks used ultimately depends on personal preference and the number of players involved. So gather your friends, choose your preferred variation, and have fun playing Burraco!
- Traditional Burraco uses two decks (108 cards).
- Burraco with four decks uses four decks (216 cards).
- Burraco with three decks uses three decks (162 cards).
Remember to shuffle the decks well and enjoy the game!