Tongits go, a popular Filipino pastime. Played by all ages in family gatherings, “inuman sessions” and barkada get togethers. It has strong roots in the Filipino lifestyle that it’s hard to know somebody who hasn’t played or knows what this game is. In this article we delve deep into the types and variants of this game and how different Filipinos play this game depending on their regions and backgrounds.
1. The Classic Tongits
Before delving into its variants, it’s essential to understand the classic version of Tongits. Played with a standard deck of 52 cards, usually excluding the jokers, Tongits is typically a three-player game, though it can be played by two or four players with slight rule modifications.
The primary objective is to minimize the points in your hand by forming sets (three or four cards of the same rank) and runs (three or more consecutive cards of the same suit). Players take turns drawing and discarding cards, aiming to lay down all their cards or to have the lowest point total when the central pile of cards is exhausted. A player can call “Tongits” if they can lay down all their cards, instantly winning the game. Another winning scenario is by calling “Draw” when they believe their hand has the lowest points after all cards have been played.
2. Pusoy Variant
Pusoy, also known as Pusoy Dos, is a variant that introduces a twist by merging elements from another popular Filipino game, Pusoy. In this variant, the gameplay involves multiple rounds where players aim to deplete their hands in a hierarchical fashion, similar to Pusoy Dos. The player who successfully plays all their cards first wins the round.
Incorporating elements from Pusoy, such as ranking hands from high to low and strategic card placement, adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement to Tongits. This variant is particularly popular in social gatherings, where the mix of familiar mechanics from both games creates a lively and engaging experience.
3. Sekiro (Three Dragons)
This variant adds a layer of complexity to the classic Tongits formula. Played with a deck of 52 cards including the threes, Sekiro introduces a new scoring element – the “Dragon.” A Dragon consists of a set of three Kings or three Aces. Forming a Dragon not only earns bonus points but also allows the player to discard any card they wish, regardless of suit or value. This strategic twist adds a layer of decision-making and bluffing to the gameplay.
4. Joker Tongits
This variation injects a wild card element into the mix. A single Joker card is added to the standard 52-card deck. The Joker acts as a wild card, allowing players to substitute it for any card they need to complete a meld. This addition adds a layer of unpredictability and can lead to some exciting last-minute meld completions.
5. Money Game Variant
In some regions, Tongits is played with monetary stakes, known as the Money Game variant. Each round involves a small bet, and the winner takes the pot. This variant adds an element of risk and reward, heightening the tension and excitement of each round. The possibility of winning or losing money encourages players to take calculated risks and make bolder moves.
The Money Game variant is popular in informal settings, such as family gatherings or friendly get-togethers, where the thrill of gambling adds to the enjoyment of the game. It also requires players to manage their resources wisely, as reckless betting can lead to quick losses.
Conclusion
The beauty of Tongits variants lies not just in their diverse gameplay mechanics but also in their ability to bring people together. Different regions in the Philippines might have their own preferred variant, reflecting local traditions and playing styles. These variations become a part of the social fabric, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned Tongits player or a curious newcomer, venturing into the realm of its many variants offers a chance to expand your knowledge and experience the game in new ways.