31, sometimes called Scat, is a classic card game where players try to build a three-card hand with the highest possible total in a single suit. The goal is to score exactly 31 points or to avoid having the lowest hand when the round ends. It is easy to learn but rewards careful decision-making. Here is how to play.
Materials You Need
- A standard 52-card deck
- Two to nine players seated around a table
- Chips, coins, or paper for keeping score
Card Values
Cards are valued as follows:
- Ace: 11 points
- King, Queen, Jack: 10 points
- 10 through 2: Face value
Only cards of the same suit may be counted toward your total.
Basic Setup
Each player starts with three chips or lives.
Shuffle the deck and deal three cards face down to each player.
Deal three cards face up to the center of the table to form the common pool.
How the Game Works
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Player Turns
Players take turns clockwise. On your turn, you may make one exchange with the center pool:
- Swap one card from your hand with one card from the center.
- Swap all three cards from your hand with the three center cards.
- Choose to make no exchange.
After completing your exchange, your turn ends.
Knocking
If you believe you have a strong hand, you may knock at the end of your turn.
Once a player knocks, all other players receive one final turn.
After the final turn, hands are revealed.
Scoring the Round
Each player totals the value of their best three-card combination in a single suit.
The player with the lowest total loses one chip.
If a player has exactly 31 points, they may immediately reveal their hand. All other players lose one chip, and the round ends immediately.
Elimination
Players who lose all their chips are eliminated from the game.
Play continues until only one player remains.
Important Rules to Remember
- Only one exchange is allowed per turn.
- All cards counted toward a score must be the same suit.
- Knocking does not end the round immediately.
- Revealing 31 ends the round instantly.
Optional Variations
- Use coins or tokens instead of chips.
- Increase starting chips for longer games.
- Allow players to knock only once per game.
- Use a time limit instead of knocking.
Tips for Playing 31
- Watch the center cards carefully.
- Do not knock too early unless your hand is strong.
- Swapping all three cards can be risky but powerful.
- Keep track of which suits you are building.
- Patience often beats aggressive play.Party Game Guides
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