How to Play “Sitting, Waiting, Wishing”: A Guide to a Timeless Game of Patience and Strategy
Sitting, Waiting, Wishing is a classic card game that has been enjoyed by players of all ages for generations. It’s a game of patience, strategy, and a bit of luck, where the objective is to be the first to collect a complete set of four cards. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to brush up on your skills, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to play Sitting, Waiting, Wishing.
Materials Needed:
Before you start playing, make sure you have the following materials:
– A standard deck of 52 playing cards
– A flat surface to place the cards on
– A way to keep score (you can use a piece of paper and a pencil, or a dedicated scorekeeper)
Setting Up the Game:
1. Shuffle the deck of cards thoroughly.
2. Deal 7 cards to each player, starting with the player to the dealer’s left.
3. Place the remaining cards face down in the center of the table to form the draw pile.
4. The player with the highest card (Ace being the highest) starts the game. If there are any face cards (Jack, Queen, King), the player with the highest face card starts the game.
Playing the Game:
1. The starting player places their highest card from their hand face up on the table.
2. The next player, in clockwise order, must place a card on top of the previous card. The card they play must be one rank higher or one suit different from the previous card.
3. If a player cannot play a card, they must draw one card from the draw pile. If the card they draw is one they can play, they must do so. If not, they must pass the turn to the next player.
4. The game continues in this manner until one player collects a complete set of four cards of the same rank.
5. Once a player has collected a complete set, they shout “Sitting, Waiting, Wishing!” and win the game.
Scoring:
The first player to collect a complete set of four cards wins the game. If a player collects multiple sets during the game, they can choose to keep the highest set or combine them for a higher score. The player with the highest score at the end of the game is declared the winner.
Strategies:
To increase your chances of winning, consider the following strategies:
– Keep track of the cards that have been played and try to predict which cards will be drawn next.
– Pay attention to the suits and ranks of the cards in your hand, as well as those on the table.
– Be patient and wait for the right moment to play a high-value card or a card that will force your opponents to draw.
Sitting, Waiting, Wishing is a delightful game that combines skill, strategy, and a touch of luck. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the game and enjoying countless hours of fun with friends and family.
