Trut Rules: Learn How to Play This Traditional Card Game
Trut is an ancient card game originating from western France, closely related to “La Truite” and “Le Trot.” Long played in rural areas, it remains appreciated today for its simplicity and friendly atmosphere. This team-based game—where bluffing and memory make all the difference—is played two versus two with a 32-card deck.
Equipment and Number of Players
Number of players: 4, in two teams of two
Cards used: 32-card deck (7 to Ace)
Setup: Partners sit facing each other. The dealer changes every round.
For a more enjoyable experience, choose rigid and easy-to-read cards, such as the Steel Watches cards from Éditions de la Tour, inspired by fine watchmaking.
Goal of the Game
The objective is to win a certain number of tricks.
Most rounds are played to three points, but players may agree on a longer game.
Card Ranking
Here is the descending value of cards in Trut (from strongest to weakest):
-
7 (called “le Sept”)
-
8
-
Ace
-
King
-
Queen
-
Jack
-
10
-
9
Yes—you read that correctly! In Trut, the 7 is the strongest card, which often surprises beginners. That’s the charm and subtlety of the game.
Objective of the Game
The goal in Trut is to win two out of three tricks in each deal. You play multiple deals, and the first team (or player) to reach a predetermined score—usually 12 or 15 points—wins the game.
How a Game of Trut Works
1. Dealing
The dealer gives each player 3 cards, one at a time, clockwise.
Players play only with the cards in their hand—there is no draw pile.
2. The First Trick
The player to the dealer’s left starts by playing a face-up card.
The others follow—there is no obligation to follow suit or play higher.
The trick is won by the strongest card played.
3. Announcements: “Trut” and “Sur-Trut”
Here is where the game becomes exciting.
A player can announce a “Trut” before playing their card—meaning they bet their team will win the trick.
An opponent may respond with a “Sur-Trut,” raising the stakes even further.
This is the strategic core of the game: sometimes you bluff, sometimes you fold.
Trut is a psychological game as much as a card game.
4. Second and Third Trick
Players then play the remaining cards in order.
The player who wins two tricks wins the round.
If each team wins one trick and the last trick is a tie, no one scores.
Scoring
The scoring system is simple:
-
Normal round won: 1 point
-
Trut won: 2 points
-
Sur-Trut won: 4 points
-
And so on if bidding escalates
This creates short but intense games where taking risks can pay off.
Tips and Strategies to Play Trut Well
-
Memorize the card ranking—it’s essential.
-
Observe played cards to anticipate opponents’ moves.
-
Bluff smartly—Trut relies heavily on psychology.
-
Play as a team—like in Belote, non-verbal cues matter.
A Cultural Game Worth Rediscovering
Trut is more than a game: it is a living tradition rooted in certain French regions. It is still played in local tournaments, cafés, or during family gatherings.
If you want, I can also create a shorter summary, a printable version, or a web-optimized format.
