Playing Cards

A standard deck can support dozens of games, making playing cards one of the most flexible parts of the Midnight Oil community library. With four decks available, a table can choose a quick children's game, a familiar classic, or a longer group challenge at an event in Titusville.

Watch How to Play

Video source: Bicycle Cards (official playlist) · Runtime: shown in the player. Edition note: Choose a game from the playlist; individual runtimes and deck requirements vary.

Quick facts

Players: Commonly 2–8 or more, depending on the game
Suggested age: Commonly 6+, depending on the game
Playing time: About 10–60+ minutes
Teaching time: About 3–15 minutes
Difficulty: Varies by game
Game type: Traditional card games, matching, trick-taking, rummy, and party games

What is the Playing Cards Collection?

A standard deck contains 52 cards divided among four suits, usually with optional Jokers. One deck can support familiar games such as War, Go Fish, Crazy Eights, Rummy, Slapjack, and many others. Having four decks also permits multiple tables or games that combine decks for larger groups.

How does it play?

  1. Choose a game for the table. Consider the player count, ages, available time, and whether the group wants luck, strategy, speed, or teamwork.
  2. Prepare the correct deck. Remove Jokers or combine decks when the selected rules call for it.
  3. Teach the goal and turn. Explain how cards are played, how a round ends, and how the winner is determined.
  4. Agree on house rules. Many traditional games have regional variations, so confirm the rules before beginning.

Why you might like it

  • One compact deck offers a large number of different experiences.
  • Familiar ranks and suits help new players learn quickly.
  • The group can easily select a game that fits the time available.

Who is it best for?

Playing cards work for almost every age and experience level when the right game is selected. Some games require reading only ranks and suits, while others rely on memory, quick reactions, arithmetic, or strategic partnerships. Ask the host for a recommendation that fits your table.

Play it with Midnight Oil

Library games are available to play free at select Midnight Oil community events. They are not currently available for take-home borrowing. Game availability and teaching assistance may vary by event, and visitors may contact us in advance to request a particular game.

Midnight Oil currently has four standard decks in the collection. Check the Events page or contact us if you want help choosing or learning a particular card game.

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Frequently asked questions

Which card games can we play?

The available options depend on your group and time. Go Fish, War, Crazy Eights, Rummy, Slapjack, and many other traditional games can use a standard deck.

Do all card games use the Jokers?

No. Many games remove them, while some include them as wild or special cards.

Why might the rules differ from the version I know?

Traditional games often develop household or regional variations. The table should agree on the rules before play begins.

Official game information and rules ↗