Welcome to Scarab 21, a strategic card game that will put your counting skills and decision-making to the test! In this guide, you’ll learn the ins and outs of the game, including how to score high and optimize your play.
Game Overview
Objective:
The goal of Scarab 21 is to play the current face-up card into one of five columns so that the sum of the column equals 21. Successfully clearing a column allows you to continue playing and aims to accumulate as many points as possible.
Getting Started
- Launch the Game:
Click the Start button on the game page to begin your adventure in Scarab 21. - Understand the Game Board:
The left side of the game board consists of three sections:- Game Stats: Displays your current score and overall game records.
- Scoring Chart: Provides payoff information for various combinations of cards.
- Card Deck Information: Shows the current face-up card and the remaining cards in the deck.
How to Play
- Playing Cards:
You can place the current face-up card into one of the five columns as long as the sum of that column does not exceed 21. If you manage to achieve a sum of exactly 21, that column is cleared, and you can play again. - End of Game:
The game ends when you cannot place the current card in any column. For example, if the current card is a King and all column sums exceed 11, you cannot play the King, resulting in game over. - Collect Points:
Once the game ends, click the “Collect Points” link to update your total scores and records.
Scoring Bonuses
To maximize your score, be on the lookout for the following bonuses:
- Jack and Ace of Spades: 50 points
- Two Black Jacks in a Row: 50 points
- Straight (total columns in any order): (16, 17, 18, 19, 20) = 100 points
- Five of a Kind: Five cards of the same face value = 100 points
- Full House: Three 5’s and two 3’s or three 3’s and two 6’s = 200 points
Maximizing Your 21s
The best strategies for achieving the maximum number of 21s involve utilizing combinations effectively:
- 4 Aces + 10: Creates 4 sets of 21 (8 cards used)
- 11 + 10: Allows for 12 sets of 21 (36 cards used). Here, the 11 can be made with combinations like 2 + 9, 3 + 8, etc.
- 6, 7, 8: Yields 1 set of 21 (3 cards used).
- 3, 4, 5, 9: Gives you another set of 21 (4 cards used).
Tips for High Scores
- Focus on Clearing Columns:
Prioritize clearing columns over attempting to collect bonus points. The more columns you clear, the more opportunities you have to play. - Follow the Maximum 21s Strategy:
Keep track of the maximum number of 21s you can achieve with the cards in hand. This will help you strategize your moves effectively. - Be Flexible with Bonuses:
While bonuses can be great, don’t chase them at the expense of clearing the deck. Sometimes you need to take what’s available instead of going out of your way for a specific bonus. - Plan Ahead:
Always think about your next move and how it will impact future plays. Consider how the cards you place will affect the remaining cards in your deck. - Practice Makes Perfect:
The more you play Scarab 21, the better you will understand the card combinations and how to maneuver effectively.
Conclusion
Scarab 21 is an exciting card game that combines strategy with a bit of luck. By mastering the gameplay mechanics and applying the strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to achieving high scores and enjoying the thrill of the game. So shuffle up, keep those columns in check, and aim for 21!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I play Scarab 21 against other players?
A: Scarab 21 is designed as a single-player experience against the game’s AI.
Q: Are there any rewards for achieving high scores?
A: Yes! High scores can earn you Neopoints and increase your overall standing in Neopets.
Q: What should I do if I run out of moves?
A: If you cannot play your current card, the game ends. Be sure to use your cards wisely to keep the game going!
