Scopa is a traditional Italian card game. This card game has garnered immense traction among card enthusiasts. This game is popular worldwide. The coolest thing about this game is that it can be played both online and offline. There are numerous online platforms where you can play Scopa card game online.
So, if you are new to this game and want to try your hand, then it is crucial to know how to play the Scopa card game. Yes, you will first need to get accustomed to Scopa card game rules. In this post, we will share with you everything that you need to know about this Italian card game. Let’s get started…
Scopa Card Game – An Overview
Scopa is a century-old Italian trick-taking game. The word “Scopa” is an Italian word that means “broom,” or “sweep.” Similar to its meaning, the players in the game need to “sweep” the table by capturing cards that help them earn points.
This game is played with a 40-card Italian deck, which typically consists of suits like swords, cups, coins, and clubs. This card game can be played by 2 to 4 players.
The main objective of the players in this game is to collect cards from the table by finding matches with the cards in their hands. They aim to earn points based on the cards they gather.
Players can earn points by accomplishing different feats, like capturing the highest number of cards, amassing the most coin cards, acquiring the coveted 7 of coins, also known as the “Sette Bello.” Scopa is a simple yet strategic game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages.
There are several variations of the Scopa game card, which includes Scopone and Scopa d’Assi. Scopa d’Assi is a wonderful variation of the Scopa game.
Players or teams aim to capture an Ace to score an additional point. Scopone, on the other hand, is a more complex version typically played in pairs with more cards dealt at the start.
Let’s now see how you can play Scopa. Here we go…
Also See: How to Play Klondike Solitaire
Some Basics of Scopa Card Game
Here are some basic rules for the Scopa card game that you need to be aware of prior to giving it a try. Take a look…
1. Deck
This card game is played with a 40-card Italian deck, which consists of four suits: swords, cups, coins, and clubs. Each suit has cards numbered from 1 to 7, plus three face cards: Knave (Fante), Knight (Cavallo), and King (Re).
2. Number of Players
The game can be played by 2 to 4 players, either individually or in teams.
3. Objective
The main objective of players in the game of Scopa is to capture as many cards as possible from the table. They score points for each of their accomplishments in the game. This game can either be played as individual players or as a team. If you intend to play it in the team, then there will be two teams with 2 members each. The player or team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Scopa Card Game: How To Play
Understanding the Gameplay: Here is what you should know about the gameplay of Scopa card game online or offline…
1. Dealing Cards
Each player is dealt with three cards, and four cards are placed face up on the table. The remaining cards in the deck are kept aside and are to be used in subsequent rounds.
2. Taking Turns
Scopa card game is played in turns. Each player takes turns. They play one card from their hand in order to collect one or more cards from the table.
They can only collect the card if its value matches the value of a card on the table, or if it matches the sum of multiple cards. For example, if there’s a 4 and a 3 on the table, playing a 7 would capture both cards.
3. Scopa (Sweeping)
If a player is able to capture all the cards on the table in one turn, they score a “Scopa.” Scopa is worth one point. A special marker is used to keep track of Scopa points in this card game.
4. Drawing New Cards
Once all the three cards in hand are played by the players, they will be dealt with another set of three cards to continue playing until the deck is fully exhausted.
5. Scoring
In the Scopa card game, points are awarded at the end of the round. Players or teams earn points for:
- Most Cards: The player or team with the most captured cards earns one point.
- Most Coins: The player or team with the most coin cards earns one point.
- Settebello: Capturing the 7 of coins (Settebello) is worth one point.
- Primiera: The player or team with the best set of cards for Primiera (based on a specific ranking system) earns one point.
- Scopa: Each Scopa made during the game is worth one point.
6. Ultimate Goal
The Scopa card game is typically played to a set number of points (often 11 or 21). The first player or team to reach this number wins the game.
Scopa Card Game: Winning Strategies
➡ Get accustomed with the rules
To win Scopa, you need to have full understanding of the rules for scopa card game.
➡ Be Attentive
As said earlier, Scopa is a trick-taking card game. Hence, it is crucial to be very attentive and keep watching your opponent’s gameplay.
➡ Track Key Cards
You will need to be mindful when playing Scopa card game online. This game is more about managing specific cards, such as the seven of coins (Sette Bello) and the highest-scoring cards. Keep track of high-value cards. If possible, try to capture them the moment they hit the table.
➡ Play Mindfully
Always play such cards that leave your opponents with fewer options.
➡ Prioritize Sweeps (Scopa)
As you know, performing a sweep (or “scopa”) earns you an extra point. Hence, it is crucial to try to perform a scopa. It can be a game-changer step in this card game.
➡ Prevent Your Opponents From Making Scopa
Try holding onto cards that can prevent your opponent from making a scopa.
➡ Target Big Cards
Always aim for cards that contribute to the four key scoring categories: the most cards, the most coins, the seven of coins, and the Primiera (the highest set of four cards of different suits).
➡ Be Ready to Sacrifice
Sometimes, it’s wise to sacrifice a single card. This prevents you from giving your opponent the chance to capture multiple cards or the important ones.
➡ Be Patient
Patience is the key to winning any card game, including Scopa. It is advisable to be patient and attentive when playing this game so that you can use your strategies wisely.
So, these are some of the best strategies you can implement to outmanoeuvre your opponent in the Scopa card game. Remember that Scopa is a game of skill; hence, practicing it on a regular basis can help you master it over time.
Platforms to Play Scopa Card Game Online
There are several online platforms where you can play Scopa card game; however, the best ones are:
- Scopone
- VIP Scopa
- Scopa Pro
- Board Game Arena
- Scopa by Jogatina
Latest Release of Scopa
The latest version released by its developer is 2.5. 7.
Development Version of Scopa
Scopa is written in Javascript and can work in any modern browser, including Firefox 48+, Chromium 49+, and so on. You can play this 1-on-1 with the computer or in four, paired with a computer. There are 5 game variants:
- Classica
- Cirulla
- Cucita
- Re Bello
- Scopone
The Bottom Line
So, this is all about the Scopa card game. You can play this game both online and offline mode. It is one of the best and simplest card games that you can play effortlessly if you have your gameplay and strategies in place. This classic card game is a perfect option to spend quality time with your loved ones or friends.
The coolest thing about this game is that they have numerous variations to choose from. You can choose to play the one that suits your requirements the best. This card game not only helps you sharpen your brain but also encourages social interaction.
So, if you feel tired of your daily routine, try the Scopa card game and have some relaxing time with loved ones!
Happy Gaming… 😊 😊
