Can You Put Down Double Cards in Speed? The Definitive Guide

Yes, you can put down double cards in Speed, provided you follow the established rules. In addition to playing a card that is one number higher or lower than the card on the discard piles, players are often allowed to play a card of equal value. This is the most common variation of the “doubles” rule and can rapidly accelerate gameplay. This guide will give you everything you need to know about double cards in Speed, the official rules, FAQs, and how the game is played.

Understanding the Basics of Speed

Speed is a fast-paced, high-energy card game for two or more players (although it is most commonly played with two people). The goal is simple: be the first to get rid of all your cards. Understanding the basic gameplay is crucial before delving into the specifics of double card plays.

How to Play Speed: A Quick Overview

1. Dealing: A standard 52-card deck is used. Each player receives a set amount of cards for their stockpile (usually 20 cards). Then a smaller number of cards are dealt for their hand (usually five cards).
2. The Play Piles: Two cards are placed face up in the center of the playing area. These are the starting points.
3. Gameplay: Players simultaneously play cards from their hand onto either of the two central piles. A card can be played if it is one number higher or lower than the card on the pile (with aces and kings wrapping around).
4. Replenishing Your Hand: Whenever a player plays a card from their hand, they immediately draw a new card from their stockpile.
5. Running Out of Cards: The first player to empty their hand and their stockpile wins the game.

What Makes Speed So Fast-Paced?

The simultaneous play is the key to Speed’s frenetic energy. There are no turns, and players are constantly trying to play their cards as quickly as possible. The speed and pressure make for a thrilling game.

The Double Cards Rule Explained

Here’s where things get interesting. While the standard rule focuses on playing cards one number above or below, the double cards rule adds another layer of strategy and speed.

How It Works

The most common implementation of the doubles rule is that you can play a card of equal value to the top card on either of the central piles.

• Example: If a central pile has a Queen on top, you can play another Queen on that pile, even if you don’t have a Jack or a King in your hand.

Strategic Implications

The double cards rule significantly changes the strategy involved in Speed.

• Opportunity to Empty Your Hand Quickly: If you have a pair of cards matching a central card, this can be a quick way to empty your hand and potentially win the game.
• Blocking Opponent’s Moves: Playing a double can prevent your opponent from playing a card on that pile for at least a moment, giving you a tactical advantage.
• Conserving Cards: Sometimes, it’s wise to hold onto a double for a strategic moment, rather than playing it immediately.

Variations on the Doubles Rule

While playing an identical card is the most common form of the doubles rule, some variations exist.

• Playing Multiple Identical Cards: Some house rules allow players to play more than one identical card at a time, provided they have them. This is usually limited to two cards, but sometimes more.
• Specific Suit Doubles: Some variations only allow you to play doubles if the cards are of the same suit.

Always clarify which version of the doubles rule is in play before starting a game of Speed.

Key Strategies for Using Double Cards

Mastering the double cards rule requires understanding when to use them.

When to Play Doubles

• When You Need to Empty Your Hand: If you are holding onto a pair of cards that match one in the center, play them to empty your hand.
• When You Can Block Your Opponent: If you see your opponent is about to make a play on a pile, playing a double can stall them.
• When It Creates Opportunities: Sometimes, playing a double can create a more favorable card on the central pile for a subsequent play.

When to Hold Back

• When a Better Play is Possible: Don’t waste a double if you can make a more strategic play with another card in your hand.
• When You Suspect a Trap: Be wary if your opponent leaves a specific card on a pile. It might be bait to get you to play a double that opens up an even better move for them.

FAQs About Double Cards in Speed

This section answers some of the most common questions about double cards in Speed.

1. Can you put down two cards at once if they are a pair?

Generally, the standard rules of Speed dictate that only one card can be played at a time unless the specific rule of playing identical pairs is in effect. Make sure you and your opponent are clear on this before starting the game.

2. Is the doubles rule in effect in standard Speed?

No, playing identical cards is not a standard rule of Speed. It is a house rule that many people use to make the game faster and more exciting. Always check with the other player or players before beginning a game.

3. Can you play multiple doubles in a row?

If you’re playing with a house rule that allows you to play doubles, you can generally play as many doubles in a row as you have in your hand that match the central card. Be aware of your hand limit and replenish accordingly.

4. What happens if both players try to play a card at the same time?

This is a common occurrence in Speed. The player whose card hits the pile first usually gets the play. If it’s truly simultaneous, you can agree to a “do-over” or a quick draw to decide who gets the play.

5. What if I run out of cards in my hand but not in my stockpile?

When you run out of cards in your hand, immediately draw more cards from your stockpile until you have the required number in your hand (usually five).

6. What if I run out of cards in my stockpile before my opponent?

The goal of the game is to be the first to have no cards left in your hand or your stockpile. When you run out of cards in your hand, immediately draw more cards from your stockpile until you have the required number in your hand.

7. Can you play Speed with more than two players?

Yes, Speed can be adapted for more than two players, but it’s typically best with just two. For each additional two players added to the game, it is recommended that an additional deck of cards be added.

8. What is the difference between Speed and Spit?

The main difference between Speed and Spit lies in the arrangement of the stockpiles. In Spit, each player has a row of piles, usually five, with the top card face up. In Speed, each player has a single face-down stockpile and a hand of five cards. As the Games Learning Society points out, understanding these nuances is key to appreciating the strategic depth of different card games.

9. What if I play a card illegally?

If you play a card illegally, your opponent can call you out on it. You typically have to take the card back into your hand and may incur a penalty, such as drawing an extra card.

10. What do I do if no one can play a card?

If both players are stuck and cannot play a card, each player flips a card face up on top of each of the active piles from their piles of remaining cards. If a player does not have any cards left in the middle piles, they turn over a card from their active cards.

11. Is there a way to make Speed even faster?

Yes, some house rules include allowing players to play cards diagonally or even skipping a number (playing a card two numbers higher or lower). However, these variations can make the game even more chaotic!

12. What card game is similar to Speed?

Spit is the card game most similar to Speed. Each player has a row of stock piles, usually five, each with the top card face up. In Speed each player has a single face down stock pile and a hand of five cards.

13. What’s the best strategy for Speed?

The best strategy for speed is to be aware of the cards on top of the discard piles, know what cards are in your hand, and know what cards are left in your draw piles.

14. Do aces and kings wrap around?

Yes, in speed card order, aces and kings do wrap around. Therefore, you can place an ace on a king and place a king on an ace.

15. What’s the most important skill to have for speed?

There are two critical skills for speed: concentration and quick reflexes. To be successful at speed you must be quick enough to put down your cards before the other player but also have the presence of mind to ensure that you have followed all of the rules.

Conclusion

The double cards rule can add a thrilling dimension to Speed. It creates opportunities for faster plays, strategic blocks, and more dynamic gameplay. Be sure to agree on the specific version of the doubles rule with your opponent before starting a game. By understanding the strategies and nuances outlined above, you’ll be well-equipped to dominate your next game of Speed. To learn more about the educational benefits and social aspects of games like Speed, consider exploring resources like GamesLearningSociety.org.