One & Thirty

Sympkyn of the Moor

Number of players: 2+
Type of game: Card
Period: 15th Century

One and Thirty (also written 31, Einunddreißig, or Trente-et-un) is a classic gambling card game of European origin. Played in taverns and courts from the 16th century onward, it is considered one of the oldest recorded games of its kind and a precursor to blackjack. The aim is simple: assemble a hand as close as possible to thirty-one points, ideally in a single suit.

History of One and Thirty

  • Origins: Likely German or Dutch, spreading across Europe in the 16th century.

  • Early Mentions: Referenced in English literature and gaming treatises, including in Shakespeare’s time.

  • Evolution: Served as a foundation for games like Basset, Bone Ace, and later Blackjack.

  • Social Role: Popular in both common taverns and noble courts, often played for stakes.

Traditional Equipment

  • Deck: Standard 52-card deck (no Jokers).

  • Chips/Tokens: Optional for betting.

  • Players: Typically 3–6, though more can play with agreed rotation.

Card Values

Card Value
Ace 11
2–10 Face value
Jack, Queen, King 10

Cards only score together if they are in the same suit. Mixed suits count only the highest card.

Objective

To achieve a hand of 31 points in one suit, or to have the highest total in one suit when players compare hands.

Standard Rules

Setup

  1. Each player is dealt 3 cards, face down.

  2. A central draw pile is formed from the remaining cards; one card is turned up to start a discard pile.

  3. Optional: Each player antes into the pot.

Gameplay

  1. On your turn, choose to draw from the deck or take the top discard.

  2. Discard one card to maintain a 3-card hand.

  3. Play proceeds clockwise.

  4. At any point during your turn, you may knock to signal that you believe your hand is best.

  5. Once someone knocks, one final turn is given to each other player.

  6. Then, all players reveal hands.

Winning

  • The player with the highest value in a single suit wins.

  • A hand of exactly 31 in one suit is the best possible and wins immediately if drawn.

  • If there’s a tie, the player who did not knock wins.

  • Optional: Losers pay a chip or coin into the pot; the winner takes it.

Optional & House Rules

1. Natural 31 Wins Automatically

  • If a player draws or is dealt Ace + King + Queen of one suit (or any 31), they may reveal and win immediately.

2. “Fire” Round

  • After knocking, if someone reveals exactly 31, they may call “Fire” and double the stakes.

3. Three-of-a-Kind

  • Three cards of the same rank (e.g. three 7s) score 30 points flat, regardless of suit.

4. Life System

  • Each player starts with 3 lives (represented by tokens or coins). Losing a round costs a life. Last player standing wins the game.

Summary Table

Rule Area Details
Players 3–6 (flexible)
Deck Standard 52-card deck
Objective Reach 31 points in one suit or have highest total
Card Values Ace = 11, Face cards = 10, Number cards = face value
Victory Best single-suit hand; 31 wins outright
Play Style Fast-paced, casual gambling or social parlour game