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Download on Google Play- 4 players, 32 cards, deal 8 each.
- Active player chooses a contract.
- No trump in any contract.
- Follow suit if possible.
- Highest card wins the trick.
- Penalties based on active contract.
- Each contract penalizes different cards/tricks.
- Lorum contract combines all penalties.
Rules
Lorum is a Hungarian compendium card game with eight different negative contracts. Each player must play all eight contracts during the game, choosing strategically based on their hand.
Objective
Score the fewest penalty points across all eight contracts. Each contract has unique penalties for different cards or tricks.
Setup
- Players: 4 players.
- Deck: 32 cards (7 through Ace of each suit).
- Deal: Deal 8 cards to each player. The active player chooses one of their remaining contracts.
Gameplay
- Step 1: The active player selects a contract from their unused list.
- Step 2: Standard trick play follows: follow suit, highest wins, no trump.
- Step 3: After all tricks, penalties are assessed based on the active contract.
- Step 4: Each player serves as active player twice, playing all 8 contracts over the game.
Scoring
- Contracts include: No Tricks, No Hearts, No Queens, No King of Hearts, No Last Two Tricks, No Boys (Jacks/Kings), No Girls (Queens), Lorum (all penalties combined).
- Each contract has specific penalty values. The Lorum contract combines all other contracts' penalties in one hand.
Variations
- Short Lorum: Play only 4 contracts for a quicker game.
- Double Stakes: The active player can double penalties before play.
Tips and Strategies
- Save the Lorum contract for when you have the strongest avoidance hand.
- Match contract selection to hand strength.
- Track which contracts opponents have remaining to predict their choices.
Tips & Strategy
Save the combined Lorum contract for your strongest hand. Choose contracts that match your hand each round.
Contract selection is the key strategic layer. Knowing which contracts opponents still need helps you predict the game's flow.
Trivia & Fun Facts
The Lorum contract (all penalties combined) is the most feared hand, as every card can be dangerous.
How many contracts must each player complete in a full game of Lorum?
History & Culture
Lorum has been popular in Hungary for over a century and influenced the development of Barbu and other compendium games.
Lorum is a beloved Hungarian card game tradition, played at family gatherings and social clubs throughout the country.
Variations & House Rules
Short Lorum uses only 4 contracts. Double Stakes lets the active player raise the penalty values.
Customize which 8 contracts are used or add new ones for variety.
