Boston (card game) facts for kids

Boston is a fun card game played by four people. It's known as a trick-taking game, which means players try to win "tricks" (a round of cards played by each person). This game is a lot like another popular card game called Whist.

People believe Boston first started in France around the 1770s. It's a game that needs good thinking and strategy to win. A single game usually takes about 25 minutes to play.

There's also a version called American Boston. This version is also for four players, but they play in two teams, or "partnerships." American Boston uses two decks of 52 cards instead of one.

What is a Trick-Taking Game?

In a trick-taking game like Boston, players take turns playing one card. The goal is to win the "trick," which is all the cards played in that round. Usually, the player who plays the highest card of a certain suit wins the trick. Winning tricks helps you score points or reach a goal in the game.

How to Play Boston

Boston is a game where players try to predict how many tricks they can win. Before the game starts, players "bid" on how many tricks they think they can take. This makes the game exciting because you have to be smart about your cards and your opponents' cards.

Game Setup and Cards

Boston is typically played with a standard deck of 52 cards. Each of the four players gets a certain number of cards. The game often involves a "trump suit," which is a special suit of cards that can beat any card from other suits.

Winning Tricks and Scoring

The player who wins the most tricks, or who meets their bid, usually gets points. The game continues for several rounds until one player or team reaches a set score. Being good at Boston means remembering which cards have been played and planning your moves carefully.

History of the Boston Card Game

The game of Boston became popular in the 18th century. It was named after the city of Boston in America, even though it started in France. This shows how popular the game became around the world during that time. It was a favorite pastime for many people.

Different Ways to Play Boston

Just like many old card games, Boston has different versions. The American Boston version is one example. These different rules make the game interesting and keep it fresh for players who enjoy variations. Some versions might change how cards are dealt, how bidding works, or how points are scored.

Images for kids

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