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Eleusis

Objective

Players take turns playing cards to a central row. The dealer (rule-maker) declares each play as "valid" or "invalid" based on the secret rule. The goal is to be the first to correctly guess the rule or earn the most points by making valid plays.

Setup

  1. Players: 3–8 people. One player acts as the dealer.

  2. Deck: Use a standard 52-card deck (no jokers).

  3. Dealer’s Role: The dealer secretly creates a rule for valid card plays (e.g., "Alternate colors" or "Prime numbers only").

    • Rules must be consistent, non-arbitrary, and possible to follow with the deck.

  4. Starting Cards: Deal 10–14 cards to each player (adjust based on group size).

Gameplay

  1. Initial Play:

    • The dealer starts the game by placing 1–3 cards face up as the initial sequence. These must follow the secret rule.

    • Example: If the rule is "Alternate colors," the dealer might start with 5♦ (red) → 2♠ (black) → J♥ (red).

  2. Player Turns:

    • On your turn, play a card from your hand to extend the sequence.

    • The dealer immediately declares the play "Valid" (follows the rule) or "Invalid" (breaks the rule).

      • If valid: The card stays in the sequence.

      • If invalid: The card is discarded, and the player draws a replacement.

  3. Rule Guessing:

    • At any time, a player may guess the rule instead of playing a card.

    • If correct: The guesser wins the round and becomes the next dealer.

    • If wrong: The player discards a card and draws a replacement.

  4. Ending the Round:

    • The round ends when:

      • A player correctly guesses the rule.

      • All players run out of cards.

    • If no one guesses the rule, the dealer reveals it and earns bonus points.

Scoring (Optional)

  • Correct guess: 5 points.

  • Valid plays: 1 point per valid card played.

  • Dealer bonus: 3 points if no one guesses the rule.

  • Invalid plays: -1 point per invalid card.

Example Rules

  1. Simple:

    • "Alternate between red and black cards."

    • "Each card must be higher than the previous one."

  2. Complex:

    • "Prime numbers only (2, 3, 5, 7, J=11)."

    • "Each card must be either one rank higher or two ranks lower than the previous."

    • "Alternate suits in the order ♥ → ♣ → ♦ → ♠."

Tips for the Dealer

  • Test your rule beforehand to ensure it’s solvable.

  • Avoid overly broad rules (e.g., "All red cards") or rules requiring memorization.

  • Start with a simple pattern to help players learn the game.

Variation: Eleusis Express

A streamlined version where:

  • The dealer writes the rule secretly before the game.

  • Players have 3 lives (invalid plays cost a life).

  • The first to guess the rule wins.

Eleusis is a fantastic game for logic lovers and makes a great party challenge! 🃏🔍

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