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Official Quiddler Rules

Quiddler is a fast-paced word game where players compete to form words using letter cards in their hands. It combines elements of Scrabble and Gin Rummy, making it an engaging and strategic game for word enthusiasts. Here's how to play:

Objective

The objective of Quiddler is to create words from the letters in your hand, and to have the highest score by the end of the game. Players earn points based on the length of their words and any special bonuses.

Setup

1. Players: 1-8 players.


2. Deck: Quiddler comes with a custom deck of 118 cards. Each card has a letter (or letter combination) and a point value.


3. Deal: The game is played in rounds. The number of cards dealt increases with each round:Round 1: 3 cards
Round 2: 4 cards
Round 3: 5 cards
Continue increasing by 1 card each round until the final round, where each player has 10 cards.

Gameplay

  1. Starting the Game:

    • Each player is dealt the appropriate number of cards for the round.

    • The remaining cards are placed face down to form a draw pile, and the top card is turned over to form a discard pile.

  2. Turn Actions:

    • Draw: On their turn, a player must draw one card. They can choose either the top card from the draw pile or the top card from the discard pile.

    • Form Words: After drawing, the player attempts to form words using the cards in their hand. Words must be at least two letters long and found in a standard dictionary.

    • Lay Down Words: Once a player can form words with all of the cards in their hand (with one card left to discard), they may "go out." They lay down their words and discard one card to end their turn.

    • End Round: When a player goes out, all other players get one last turn to draw and lay down their words.

  3. Scoring:

    • Players score points based on the sum of the point values on the cards they used to form words. Cards not used in words are subtracted from their total score.

    • Bonuses:

      • Longest Word: The player with the longest word in each round receives a 10-point bonus. If there's a tie, each tied player receives the bonus.

      • Most Words: The player with the most words in each round receives a 10-point bonus. If there's a tie, each tied player receives the bonus.

Winning the Game

  • The game continues for eight rounds (up to 10 cards per player).

  • The player with the highest total score at the end of the final round wins the game.

Notes/Variations

  • Solitaire: Quiddler can also be played as a solo game where the player tries to achieve the highest score possible over the course of eight rounds.

  • Team Play: In larger groups, Quiddler can be played in teams, with teammates combining their words and scores.

Quiddler is a fun, fast-paced word game that is a great for a family game night or party with friends!

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