What is Capsa Susun? How to Play & Rules: Step-by-Step Strategy

If you’re into card games that mix skill, strategy, and a bit of luck, then Capsa Susun might just become your new favorite. Popular across Southeast Asia, especially in Indonesia and Malaysia, this game is a fun twist on classic poker with unique rules that make it fast-paced and exciting.

Capsa Susun is often called “Chinese Poker” or “Big Two” in some circles, but it has its own distinct style. The goal is simple: arrange your cards into three poker hands, then beat your opponents’ hands in each of those sets.

The Basics: What You Need

Players: Typically 2 to 4

Deck: Standard 52-card deck, no jokers

Each player is dealt 13 cards. Your job is to split these into three hands:

1. The Front Hand: 3 cards, usually the weakest hand.

2. The Middle Hand: 5 cards, stronger than the front.

3. The Back Hand: 5 cards, the strongest hand.

Important rule: Your back hand must be the strongest, the middle hand second strongest, and the front hand the weakest. If you get this order wrong, you automatically lose the round!

How to Arrange Your Cards

Think of Capsa Susun like building three poker hands:

– The Back Hand is your best 5-card poker hand. You want to make this as strong as possible — think full house, flush, straight, or even a royal flush if you’re lucky.

– The Middle Hand is also 5 cards but must be weaker than your back hand. Aim for pairs, two pairs, or three-of-a-kind here.

– The Front Hand is only 3 cards, so the best hand here is usually a pair. It can’t beat your middle or back hands.

Playing the Game

After everyone arranges their hands, players reveal their hands simultaneously. Then the comparison begins:

– Compare each player’s front hand against the others’ front hands.

– Compare middle hands similarly.

– Compare back hands.

Whoever wins more hands (2 out of 3) wins the round and scores points. If you lose two or more hands, you lose points.

Special Scoring Rules

Capsa Susun often uses special rules that can multiply your score:

1. Royal Flush Bonus: If your back hand is a royal flush, you get extra points.

2. All Three Hands Win (3-0): If you beat an opponent in all three hands, you earn a bonus called a “scoop” or “cap.”

3. Foul Hand: If your hands are not arranged in the correct order (back ≥ middle ≥ front), you automatically lose the round and may have to pay penalties to all opponents.

Step-by-Step Strategy for Beginners

1. Prioritize Your Back Hand. Always try to build your strongest possible 5-card hand here. It’s the foundation of winning rounds.

2. Don’t Forget the Front Hand. It’s tempting to ignore since it’s only 3 cards, but a strong front hand can secure you crucial wins.

3. Balance Your Hands. Avoid making your middle or front hands too strong. They must be weaker than the back hand to avoid fouling.

4. Watch Your Opponents. Pay attention to the cards they play and their tendencies. Adjust your strategy accordingly.

5. Practice Makes Perfect. The more you play, the better you get at quickly spotting strong hand combinations and optimizing your splits.

Common Terms You Should Know

Cap: Winning all three hands against an opponent.

Foul: Incorrect hand ranking order.

Flush: Five cards of the same suit.

Straight: Five cards in numerical order.

Why Play Capsa Susun?

Capsa Susun is a fantastic blend of poker skill with a unique twist that challenges your ability to strategize on multiple hands at once. It’s social, quick to learn, and always keeps you thinking.

Ready to dive in? Grab a deck, gather some friends, and start dealing those 13 cards. With practice, you’ll master the art of arranging your hands and dominating the table!

Good luck, and may the best goddess—or should we say, the best player—win!