The Booray card game is a popular trick-taking game played primarily in the southern United States. Its easy-to-learn rules and exciting gameplay make it enjoyable for players of all skill levels.
This article explains exactly how to play the Booray card game clearly and simply. It’s also called Bourre in some places.
Number of Players: 3-8 but best with 4 or more.
Deck: Standard 52 card deck with the Jokers removed. You will also need poker chips or similar types of tokens to make bets with.
Ace is high.
Game Type: Casino
Object of the Game
The primary goal of the Booray card game is to win the most tricks during each round. A trick consists of each player placing one card onto the table. The player who places the highest-ranking card in the lead suit or highest trump card wins that trick.
At the end of each round, players receive points based on the tricks won.
The first player to reach a predetermined number of points, usually 15 or 21, wins the game.
The Deal
To begin playing the Booray card game, choose one player to be the dealer. The dealer shuffles a standard 52-card deck thoroughly.
Then, the dealer gives five cards face down to each player, distributing cards clockwise. After dealing, the dealer places the remaining cards face down, then turns the top card face up. This face-up card sets the trump suit for the round.
The Play
Each player places a chip into the pot at the start of the round.
After players have seen their hand they can choose whether to play the round or not. If they don’t wish to play they forfeit the chip placed into the pot but by not playing with a weak hand they may avoid a penalty later in the round. More on that in a moment.
The player seated left of the dealer plays the first card, starting the first trick. Play continues clockwise, with each player placing one card onto the table.
Following Suit
Players must follow the lead suit whenever possible. If a player cannot follow suit, they may play a trump card or discard any card they choose.
Winning Tricks
The player who plays the highest-ranking trump card wins the trick. If no trump cards are played, the highest-ranking card of the lead suit wins. The winner of a trick starts the next trick by playing any card from their hand.
Ending the Round
Once players use all five cards, the round ends. Players count their tricks and tally their points. If a player wins no tricks during the round, that player experiences a “booray,” facing penalties or losing points depending on the variation played.
Strategies
Holding trump cards until the right moment often determines success in the Booray card game. Try saving your trump cards to win crucial tricks later in the round.
Observe Opponent’s Moves: Pay attention to cards played by opponents. Observing their moves helps predict their remaining cards, guiding your choices.
Control the Lead: Winning a trick allows you to lead the next one. Playing strategically lets you control gameplay, forcing opponents to use their valuable cards prematurely.
Variations
Louisiana Booray
In Louisiana Booray, players must announce if they intend to “booray” or go “set” before playing begins. A player declaring “set” must win at least one trick; failure results in losing points.
Blind Booray
Blind Booray involves players choosing to play without looking at their cards after the trump suit is revealed. This adds risk and excitement, making each round unpredictable.
Progressive Booray
In Progressive Booray, each round increases the number of cards dealt to players. Players start with one card each, increasing by one each round. The game continues until players receive all cards or a set limit.
Florida Booray
In Florida Booray, players score points equal to the number of tricks won. A player winning all five tricks earns double points, creating more dynamic scoring opportunities.
Tips for New Players
Play regularly to become familiar with game dynamics and develop winning strategies.
Keep Track of Cards Played: Knowing which cards remain helps you make smarter decisions during the game.
Balance Aggression and Caution: Choosing the right moments to play aggressively or cautiously significantly influences the outcome.
By following these instructions, tips, and strategies, anyone can quickly master the Booray card game. If you enjoy playing Booray you should also try Pitch, Egyptian Rat Screw and Kings Corner.
FAQs
How many players can play Booray?
Booray is typically played with 3 to 6 players.
What happens if I can’t follow suit?
If you can’t follow suit, you can play a trump card or discard any other card.
Can you play Booray with a standard deck of cards?
Yes, Booray is played using a standard 52-card deck.
What does “booray” mean in the game?
A “booray” occurs when a player wins no tricks in a round, resulting in penalties or loss of points.
Is Booray suitable for beginners?
Yes, Booray is easy to learn and enjoyable for players of all skill levels, including beginners.
By following these instructions, tips, and strategies, anyone can quickly master the Booray card game. Enjoy playing this exciting and fast-paced game with friends or family, improving your skills with every round.