Blazing Aces!: A Fistful of Family Card Games

World-renowned game designer Reiner Knizia is the master of simple game rules that create fun and enjoyment for people of all ages. In this book of fifteen original card games, he reveals how to use ordinary playing cards in a number of novel new ways. All that’s needed is an understanding of basic poker combinations--you’ll learn them here!--and a standard deck of cards or two. In addition to the basic games, a number of variants are also introduced to make play even more interesting.

Just follow along as cowboy Joe Joker explains how to play using detailed illustrated examples and stories from the Wild West. Grab a deck of cards and rustle up your family, a few friends, or your regular posse. You’ll quickly be enjoying a variety of fun games suitable for all ages!

From the Introduction:

All the games presented in this book are based on card combinations used in Poker. However, these games are not gambling games but are designed to be played by all the family. The card combinations merely provide a familiar and easy accessible basis for many new play mechanisms to explore and enjoy.

So, welcome to the Wild West! Our hero, Joe Joker, is keen to tell you the story of his life: settling in the West, the gold rush in California, the stage coaches and the iron horses, the cowboys and their challenging lives. But first and foremost, Joe is an enthusiastic card player and he will introduce you to all of these exciting new games. It is time to play! 

Reiner Knizia