| | | | |

Beggars and Thieves (1984) Board Game

ByMichail

Beggars and Thieves is a classic card game that was released in 1984 by Parker Brothers. It is a team-based game that involves hand management and trick-taking mechanics. The game is designed for 2-5 players, with a runtime of 15-30 minutes and an age recommendation of 10+.

Game Components of Beggars and Thieves

  • Two identical decks** with different backs, except for the Swedish edition which has a plastic card tray.
  • Cards: Three beggar suits and one thief suit, the latter being the trump suit.
  • Player count: 2 to 5 players.

    How To Setup Beggars and Thieves

    To set up the game, each player receives a certain number of cards. For a five-player game, each player gets 10 cards, and there are two cards in the blind. For a four-player game, each player receives nine cards, with two cards in the blind.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Mechanics: Hand Management, Partnerships, Trick-taking.
  • Objective: Earn points by taking tricks, with most points coming from the three beggar suits. The thief suit acts as the trump suit.
  • Variable Partnerships: Partnerships change from hand to hand, determined by the play of specific thief cards.

    Player Experience

    Beggars and Thieves offers a dynamic and engaging experience with its unique blend of trick-taking and variable partnerships. Players must strategize not only on which cards to play but also on how the partnerships will shift during the game. This adds a layer of social interaction and unpredictability, making each game distinct.

    Pros

  • Innovative Mechanics: Ahead of its time with tweaked trick-taking rules.
  • Dynamic Partnerships: Keeps the game exciting and unpredictable.
  • Reusable: Comes with two identical decks, enhancing replayability.

    Cons

  • Complexity: May be confusing for new players due to the variable partnerships and different suit values.
  • Not Perfect: Some players find the game not fully polished, but it still offers a fun experience.

    Personal Thoughts on Beggars and Thieves

    Beggars and Thieves is ideal for those who enjoy trick-taking games with a twist. It’s a great option for players looking to mix up their usual card game routine and appreciate the strategic depth that comes with dynamic partnerships. While it may not be perfect, it certainly offers a unique and engaging experience that can appeal to a wide range of players.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl