Best Card Games for 2 Players

Card games have been around for hundreds of years. In fact, the world’s oldest card game was first mentioned no later than the 9th century! Since then, countless games involving cards have been thought up. Nobody knows for sure how many there are. 

Though, some estimates claim that almost 10,000 different card games exist today. That’s a lot to choose from! So, in the interest of keeping things simple, here is our pick of 13 card games for two players that you should enjoy in 2019.

1. Rummy: a classic two-person card game

There probably isn’t a card-game-loving soul alive that hasn’t heard of Rummy - it’s one of the world’s classic card games. Invented in 1909, Rummy can be played by two or more players. Here your objective is to outscore your opponent by improving the hand you were originally dealt. You do this by creating runs and sets i.e. three-of-a-kind or four-of-a-kind.

If you like Rummy, then you may also give Gin a try. This is another of the world’s classic card games for two players and it happens to derive from Rummy. Gin was also invented in 1909 and is intended to be quicker than Rummy.

In Gin, you and your opponent agree on a score that you must surpass to win. It’s easy to learn and gets an honourable mention in our list. Fun fact, these are one of the few card games where aces represent both high and low numbers.

2. Uno: A Two-Person Card Game that’s Great for any Party

If you’re hosting a party then Uno is the way to go. It’s a shedding-type card game that between two and ten people can enjoy. Uno is perfectly suited to any party atmosphere. It’s one of the best card games for two drinking buddies, particularly if you’ve decided to stay in on the weekend. Therefore, it makes our list as one of the best card games for two players in 2019.

In Uno, your aim is to score 500 points before any of your opponents do. You do this by being the first to get rid of all your cards in your hand. At this point, the round ends. Then, you score points for cards that your opponents hold in their hands. 

Along the way, you must avoid penalty cards that your opponents will use to prevent you from discarding all your cards first i.e. “reverse”, “skip” and “draw 4”. Also, keep an eye out for opponents who are on their last card but don’t call Uno. You can call Uno for them and make them draw another card.

3. The World Game: a geographical card game for two players to test your knowledge

The World Game is an all-ages card game for 2 to 5 players that puts your geographical knowledge to the test. Learn about the continents, flags and capital cities of all the world’s countries – all 194 of them! With The World Game, the more you play the more you learn. Therefore, it makes our list of the best card games for two players in 2019.

In The World Game, your objective is to win by calling out the best facts about your country and beating your opponents. There are four game modes to choose from before you begin playing, and there are four different challenges you can call out during play. The game even comes with a map and illustrative cards that children can use as flashcards to study.

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