Of course, there are countless other games playable with a standard deck this list represents the most well-known and those I've personally enjoyed or recognize as classics. While some recent games are mentioned, the primary goal is to highlight games that use a standard deck, rather than modern adaptations. This list primarily focuses on traditional card games that have stood the test of time.

Notably, many of these games are perfect for just two participants. Each game's description includes its ideal player count. At the end, I've listed books and resources on card games that I personally recommend. Here's a compilation of my top traditional card games, sorted alphabetically, and categorized for adults or children. Over the years, despite my extensive collection of modern games, I've found myself drawn to traditional card games, especially when I have a custom deck at hand. Now, what games to play? While many are familiar with a few standard card games, there's a vast world of card games yet to be explored. During game breaks, players can also appreciate the detailed artwork, which enhances the overall experience. Not only do you get the pleasure of using them, but others also get the chance to admire and enjoy their design. Moreover, these decks are not just for admiration they come alive when used for card games, cardistry, or magic tricks.īut one of the best methods to enjoy these decks is by playing card games. Holding them, feeling their embossed texture, and appreciating the intricate designs adds to the experience. While they may rest elegantly on your shelf, their true allure emerges when used. He spent hoursĪnd hours carefully cutting them out and colouring them by hand.Owning a beautiful deck of custom playing cards is a joy. This interest changed into an ability to makeĪnd mend boxes, which he did with great dexterity.Īnd eye soon led to his making card games of his own design. Which were the same as those of Alf Cooke’s Universal Playing Card Company, He could always recognize a box made for Pepys,

He became an expert on boxes and would always investigate Later he moved into sales and worked for a firm that made all kinds of packaging, a job he enjoyed until Occasion for smoking! Despite this he trained as a radio engineer and worked Sheet music, music CDs, models of London buses, London Transport timetablesĪnd maps and other objects that intrigued him. His other interest was non-standard playing cards. He is well known for his extensive knowledge of Pepys games and his book is on the bookshelves of many. Rex's main interest was in card games, because, he said, they were cheap and easy to get hold of in his early days of collecting. View Articles Contact Rex Pitts (1940-2021)

Vintage old maid card game