Knaves
- Designer (Uncredited)
- Publisher (Public Domain)
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Knaves, each player tries to win tricks without taking any jacks. The game uses a standard 52-card deck with one card revealing the trump suit. Players must follow suit if possible, otherwise can play any card. Tricks are won by the highest trump or highest card of the led suit. Scoring rewards tricks but penalizes jacks differently depending on their suits.
Who Is This Game For?
Knaves is aimed at players who enjoy classic trick-taking games with a unique scoring twist for jacks. It is a family-level game with moderate complexity, designed strictly for three players. Prior experience with trick games helps but is not mandatory. The approximately 60-minute playtime suits patient groups.
How It Works
The full deck is dealt except one card that determines trump. The player to dealer's left leads a card. Others must follow suit if able (Hand Management). The highest trump or highest card of the led suit wins the trick (Trick-taking). Players score points for tricks won but lose points for jacks taken, depending on their suit. The goal is to reach 20 points first.
What Makes It Special
Knaves is a traditional trick-taking card game using a standard deck and a unique jack scoring system. It belongs to the 'Card Games: Outplay' family and is designed exclusively for three players. No credited designer is listed, and it is published as Public Domain, focusing on pure card mechanics without expansions.
Pro
- Classic trick-taking game with unique jack scoring
- Strictly for 3 players, no expansions
- Simple rules with strategic hand management
- About 60 minutes playtime fits typical game sessions
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Only playable with exactly three players
- No minimum age specified, may not be suitable for children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game uses a standard 52-card deck without a specific theme or setting. It falls under the card game category and is designed for three players.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on avoiding jacks and keeping track of the trump suit to minimize point losses.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Knaves is designed only for exactly three players.
How long does a game really take?
A game takes about 60 minutes, suitable for an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of trick-taking games is helpful but not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Knaves stands out through its unique jack scoring and exclusive three-player design.
Is this suitable for families?
Without a specified minimum age and moderate complexity, it is better suited for experienced families.
What mechanic makes it special?
Hand Management and Trick-taking define gameplay, especially the jack scoring influences strategy.
Fazit
Knaves suits players who like trick-taking games with a twist and exactly three players. It offers classic card play but requires patience and some experience with trick-taking mechanics.
