Short Bismarck

Developed by Francis Dobbs.  Submitted by Philippa Bird .

Introduction

This version of Bismarck is less cumbersome than the original due to the reduced number of cards required, thus facilitating handling and keeping track of the cards played.  The scoring is virtually proportionate to that in the classic version.

Dealing, bidding, making tricks

For this shorter version of Bismarck, the pack is reduced to 43 cards consisting of Clubs 5 and above and other suits, 4 and above.

Each of three players deals 4 times in succession 13 cards to each player plus 4 more to himself. The dealer decides which 4 of the 17 cards to discard before play begins. Forehand (the player to dealer's left) leads to the first trick. Players must follow suit; if unable they may play any card.

Trumps and Scoring

1st Deal No trump     

Dealer scores 1 point for each trick taken above 7

Each opponent scores 1 point for each trick taken above 3

2nd Deal cut for trump

Dealer scores 1 point for each trick taken above 7

Each opponent scores 1 point for each trick taken above 3

3rd Deal, dealer selects trump

Dealer scores 1 point for each trick taken above 7

Each opponent scores 1 point for each trick taken above 3

4th Deal, Lose tricks at no trump

Dealer scores 3 points less number of tricks taken

Each opponent scores 5 points less number of tricks taken

Variation

As in 52-card Bismarck, instead of playing the deals in a fixed order, the dealer may be allowed to select which type of deal to play each time, on condition that each dealer must choose each of the four types once during the session.