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Download on Google Play- Remove 8s, 9s, and 10s from the deck.
- Deal 3 cards to each player.
- Place 4 cards face up on the table.
- Play one card from your hand.
- Capture a matching card or a group of cards that sum to your card's value.
- If you clear the table, mark a chkobba.
- Points for most cards, most diamonds, 7 of diamonds, and each sweep.
- First to the target score wins.
Rules
Chkobba is a popular Tunisian fishing card game closely related to the Italian game Scopa. Players capture cards from the table by matching values, with bonus points awarded for sweeping the table clean.
Objective
Score the most points by capturing cards from the table, especially diamonds, the 7 of diamonds, and by performing sweeps (chkobba).
Setup
- Players: 2 to 4 players, typically played with 2 or in partnerships of 2 vs 2.
- Deck: A 40-card deck (standard deck with 8s, 9s, and 10s removed). Face cards are valued Jack=8, Queen=9, King=10.
- Deal: Deal 3 cards to each player and place 4 cards face up on the table.
Gameplay
- Step 1: On your turn, play one card from your hand to the table.
- Step 2: If your card matches the value of a single table card, you capture both cards and add them to your scoring pile.
- Step 3: If your card matches the sum of multiple table cards, you may capture all of those cards together with your played card.
- Step 4: If you capture all cards on the table (a sweep, or chkobba), place the capturing card face up in your pile to mark the bonus point. If no capture is possible, your card remains on the table.
Scoring
- 1 point for having the most cards captured overall.
- 1 point for having the most diamonds.
- 1 point for capturing the 7 of diamonds (known as the bermila).
- 1 point for each chkobba (sweep of the table).
- Games are typically played to 11 or 21 points.
Variations
- Partnership Chkobba: With 4 players, play in teams of 2 sitting across from each other, combining captured cards.
- Chkobba Royale: Some versions award extra points for capturing all four 7s or all four 6s.
Tips and Strategies
- Try to keep track of which high-value cards have been played, especially the 7 of diamonds.
- Avoid leaving a total of 10 or less on the table, as your opponent can sweep with a single card.
- Save cards that match common table totals to maximize your capture opportunities.
Tips & Strategy
Focus on capturing diamonds and the 7 of diamonds for reliable points. Watch the table total carefully to avoid giving your opponent an easy sweep.
Skilled players memorize which cards have been captured to calculate remaining possibilities. Controlling the table total so opponents cannot sweep is a key defensive tactic.
Trivia & Fun Facts
The word 'chkobba' comes from the Arabic word for 'hit' or 'strike,' referring to the satisfying moment of sweeping all cards from the table.
In Chkobba, what is the most valuable single card you can capture for bonus points?
History & Culture
Chkobba evolved from the Italian game Scopa, brought to Tunisia through centuries of Mediterranean trade and cultural exchange. It remains one of the most popular card games in Tunisia and the broader Maghreb region.
Chkobba is a cultural staple in Tunisian cafes and family gatherings, often played during Ramadan evenings. It serves as a social bonding activity that transcends age and class.
Variations & House Rules
Partnership Chkobba adds a team element with 4 players, while Chkobba Royale introduces bonus scoring for collecting all four cards of certain ranks.
Adjust the target score to 11 for shorter games or 21 for longer sessions. You can also allow younger players to play with open hands for a learning-friendly experience.
