Preferans

Preferans is a trick-taking card game played by three players with a standard 32-card deck, typically from 7 to Ace. The game involves bidding to name a contract, which determines the trump suit or if the game is played without a trump. The objective is to win a predetermined number of tricks based on the contract.

The game begins with dealing 10 cards to each player. The remaining two cards form the "talon." Players then bid, starting with the player to the left of the dealer. Bidding progresses in a clockwise direction, with each bid being higher than the previous one. Bids represent the number of tricks the bidder aims to win and the denomination of the trump suit (or no trump, known as "sans"). The highest bidder wins the contract and can choose to take the two talon cards, adding them to their hand and discarding two cards.

If a player successfully makes their contract (wins at least the number of tricks bid), they score points. Failing to make the contract results in a penalty. The game is played over several rounds, with players rotating as the dealer. Preferans is known for its strategic depth, requiring players to manage their hands, anticipate opponents' moves, and make calculated bids. It is a popular game in Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia and parts of the former Soviet Union.