Setup:

• Board: The board is the playing field. Each space represents a card from a standard 52-card deck (minus the Jacks), arranged in a 10x10 grid. Notice that some spaces represent two different cards, offering flexibility in placement.

• Cards: Two standard 52-card decks (minus Jacks) are shuffled together. The number of cards dealt to each player varies based on the number of players (typically 6 cards per player in a 2-player game, fewer for more players).

• Chips: Each player (or team) chooses a distinct color of playing chips.
  

Gameplay - Taking Turns:

Players alternate turns, and each turn consists of these actions:

1. Card Selection: Choose one card from your hand that you wish to play.

2. Chip Placement: Locate the matching card (or one of the matching cards if the space represents two) on the game board. Place one of your colored chips on that space.

3. Discard: Discard the card you used face up into a discard pile. This pile is important as it shows what cards have already been played.

4. End Turn: Your turn is complete.
   

Forming Sequences - The Core Goal:

The objective of Sequence is to be the first player or team to create two separate sequences of five of your colored chips in a row.

• Sequence Formation: A sequence can be formed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

• Two Sequences Required:  You need two distinct sequences to win. You cannot use the same five chips to count as two sequences, even if they intersect.

• Blocking: A key strategic element is blocking your opponents. If they are close to forming a sequence, placing one of your chips in a strategic spot can disrupt their plans.
  

Special Cards - The Jacks:

Jacks are wild cards and add a layer of tactical complexity:

• One-Eyed Jack (Black Jack): This Jack allows you to remove one chip belonging to an opponent from the board. However, you cannot remove a chip that is already part of a completed sequence of five. One-Eyed Jacks are primarily defensive tools.

• Two-Eyed Jack (Red Jack): This Jack allows you to place one of your chips on any open space on the board, regardless of the card it represents. Two-Eyed Jacks are powerful offensive tools for creating sequences.
  

Winning the Game:

The first player or team to create two separate sequences of five chips wins the game. It's not enough to have ten chips on the board; they must form two distinct lines of five.

Advanced Strategies and Tips:

• Card Counting (Advanced): While not strictly necessary, keeping track of which cards have been played (by observing the discard pile) can give you a significant advantage. This allows you to deduce what cards your opponents might be holding and plan your moves accordingly.

• Defensive vs. Offensive Play:  Knowing when to play defensively (blocking opponents) versus offensively (creating your own sequences) is essential. A balanced approach is usually best.

• Team Communication (Team Play): If playing with a partner, communication is key (though often limited by the rules). Subtle cues and understanding your partner's playing style can greatly improve your chances of winning.

• Early Game vs. Late Game:  Early in the game, it's often best to focus on building a foundation and setting up potential sequences. Later in the game, you'll need to be more aggressive in blocking opponents and seizing opportunities to create your winning sequences.

• Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt your strategy as the game unfolds. The board state can change quickly, and you need to be able to adjust your plans accordingly.