Game Components:

• Tiles: Rummikub is played with a set of 106 tiles. Each tile has a number from 1 to 13 in four different colors (red, blue, yellow, and black), and there are two sets of each number/color combination. Additionally, there are two joker tiles, which are wild.

Setup:

1. Shuffle Tiles: Mix all the tiles face down on the table.

2. Draw Tiles: Each player draws 14 tiles to start the game. The remaining tiles form the draw pile.

Objective:

• The goal of Rummikub is to be the first player to play all of your tiles by forming sets and runs.

Gameplay:

1. First Move: The player with the highest tile (the sum of the numbers on the tile) starts the game by placing tiles on the table. The total value of the tiles placed on the table must be at least 30 points.

2. Turn Sequence: Players take turns in clockwise order.

3. Drawing Tiles: On their turn, a player has two options:

   • Draw: Take one tile from the draw pile.

   • Play: Play one or more sets or runs from their hand onto the table.

4. Playing Sets and Runs:

   • Sets: Three or four tiles of the same number in different colors.

   • Runs: Three or more consecutive tiles of the same color.

5. Initial Requirement: The first move made by each player must include tiles that have a total value of at least 30 points and must include at least one set or run.

6. Manipulating Sets: Players can manipulate sets and runs on the table by adding tiles to existing sets or runs, or by rearranging tiles to form new sets or runs.

7. Using Jokers: Jokers can be used as substitute tiles in sets or runs. When a joker is played, it can be any tile the player wishes.

8. End of Turn: After playing or manipulating tiles, a player must end their turn by placing a tile on the table.

9. Declaring Rummikub: When a player plays all of their tiles, they declare "Rummikub" and win the round. They must have played all their tiles and have no tiles remaining in their hand.

End of Game:

• The game ends when one player successfully plays all of their tiles and declares "Rummikub." That player wins the game.

Scoring:

• At the end of each round, players receive points based on the total value of the tiles left in their opponents' hands.

Variations:

• Different Starting Conditions: Some variations allow players to start the game with different requirements, such as different initial point totals.

• Special Rules for Jokers: Some variations have specific rules regarding the use of joker tiles.

Strategy:

• Watch Your Opponents: Pay attention to the tiles your opponents are playing and try to predict their next moves.

• Keep Track of Tiles: Keep track of the tiles that have been played and the tiles remaining in the draw pile to strategize your moves.

• Be Flexible: Be prepared to adapt your strategy based on the tiles available and the actions of your opponents.