If you want to see what’s possible with just regular d6 dice, or a regular pack of 52 cards then the two Knizia books Dice Games Properly Explained, and New Tactical Games with Dice and Cards are a must.
I particularly like Dice Games Properly Explained. Scattered between the many explanations of games are some interesting chapters explaining probability and stuff. The game descriptions not only describe the rules but also give advice on tactics. I think my favourite game so far from this book is Ship, Captain, Crew, a Yahtzee style push your luck game.
According to Amazon I was missing two Knizia books, Poker Plain and Simple, and Blazing Aces! A Fistfull of Family Card Games.
So naturally I had to order them. And they arrived yesterday.
I don’t play poker. However I’m familiar with Texas Hold’em. Mainly from YouTube videos and tv. Plus whatever version of poker I’ve seen played in westerns.
I certainly know poker hands from numerous board games where they are used as a mechanic such as Dice Town, or The Gang.
One thing that has confused me about Texas Hold’em is the bidding, especially the checking. But not enough to google it. So I’m looking forward to Knizia explaining it.
When you throw in the likes of Regicide what you can play with a regular pack of cards is incredible. So I’m looking forward to seeing what Knizia has come up with in his western themed book of card games.
Anyways more for the reading pile for while the little monsters are enjoying the warmth of the spring sun.
