In any field, understanding the fundamentals is one step closer to becoming the best. This is no different from Tongits, a beloved card game that has been a longstanding recreational activity for Filipinos across multiple generations.
By incorporating these card games, including Tongits, into its platforms, GameZone inspires future generations to continue them. In addition to showcasing games from other industry-renowned developers, GameZone also produces its own original games. In fact, GameZone holds the distinction of being the top card game developer in the Philippines, with Tongits offline being one of its primary areas of focus.
But before diving into Tongits go digital adaptations, let’s first familiarize ourselves with the basics and tips on how to play Tongits.
Tongits, also known as Tong-its or Tung-it, is a widely played card game for three players that originated in the Philippines. Played with a standard 52-card deck, it bears similarities to Gin Rummy. In Tongits kingdom, the goal is to play all your cards first or finish with the lowest score.
In Tongits, the dealer begins by distributing cards to the players: 13 cards to themselves and 12 cards to each of the other two players. The dealer places the remaining cards face down in the center, forming the draw pile. The game progresses in a counterclockwise direction, with each player’s turn consisting of drawing a card and then discarding one.
The strategic core of Tongits go download revolves around creating and managing “bahay” (house) combinations. These combinations can be pairs, triples, or straight flushes of the same suit. Players aim to form these combinations to reduce their hand’s point value and potentially win the game. An intriguing tactical element is the “Sapaw” rule, which allows players to override face-up combinations with higher-ranking ones of the same type. This rule adds a layer of protection for players who have exposed their combinations.
As the game unfolds, players must carefully balance their card management, deciding which cards to keep, discard, or use in combinations. When the draw pile runs out, the objective is to either discard all cards or have the lowest point total. If a player manages to discard all their cards, they must announce “Tongits” just before their final discard to claim victory.
Play ends when the draw pile runs out, forcing all players to total the points in their hands. The point system allocates values to cards in the following manner: face cards (Jack, Queen, King) carry a value of 10 points each, aces carry a value of 1 point, and number cards reflect their face value. After totaling these points, the player with the lowest score emerges as the winner.
This scoring system adds an additional strategic layer to the game, as players must constantly evaluate their hand not just for potential combinations but also for its overall point value. This dual focus on combinations and point minimization makes Tongits online a game of skill, strategy, and sometimes calculated risk-taking.
Join elite ranks with these tips.
- Develop card management: Mastering card management enables players to anticipate their opponents plans and adapt to tactics as needed. Ultimately, having excellent card management improves your likelihood of victory by overseeing hand value and limiting abrupt decisions.
- Learn from the best: Experts can provide invaluable insight on the basics, advanced strategies, decision-making, and even the nuances of Tongits kingdom. In addition, they can assist you in adapting to various playing styles and enhance your bluffing abilities. By doing this, you can accelerate your development and even compete against the best of the best.
- Control your emotions: staying calm under pressure is a skill not everyone can master. Players tend to let emotion dictate their movement, leading to rash decisions that could affect the game. Having a composed demeanor can give players a clear mind that is essential in carrying out big decisions.
- Practice: More than anything, the most effective tip in Tongits skill development is practice. Once a player continuously exposes themselves through rigorous practice, they can enhance their skills and overall performance. Furthermore, it enhances a player’s mastery of the game, encompassing fundamentals, strategy, and even play styles.
GameZone is adding new flavors to Tongits gaming.
GameZone’s Tongits has evolved into several variants, each offering unique gameplay experiences while maintaining the core essence of the traditional game. These variations cater to different player preferences, skill levels, and time constraints.
Tongits Plus adheres closely to the original Tongits rules, employing a standard 52-card deck. What sets it apart is its tiered system of play, featuring four distinct levels with corresponding entry fees: There are four distinct levels: middle level (10), senior level (20), superior level (50), and master level (200). This structured approach allows players to choose a tier that aligns with their expertise and comfort level, ensuring a more tailored gaming experience.
Tongits Joker introduces an exciting twist to the classic game. By incorporating jokers into the standard 52-card deck, it opens up new strategic possibilities and winning opportunities. This variant simplifies the level system to three tiers: Newbie level (1), Primary level (5), and Middle level (10).
For those seeking a quicker gaming session, Tongits Quick offers a condensed version of the traditional game. It uses a reduced deck of 36 cards, removing 10s and face cards (Jack, Queen, King) but adding jokers to the mix. This modification significantly speeds up gameplay, making it ideal for players with limited time. Tongits Quick adopts the same three-level system as Tongits Joker: Newbie level (1), Primary level (5), and Middle level (10). This variant’s faster pace and simplified deck make it an excellent option for casual play or for those looking to squeeze in a quick game during short breaks.
Each of these Tongits variants offers a unique twist on the classic game, providing players with diverse options to suit their preferences, skill levels, and time availability. There’s a Tongits version to enhance your gaming experience, whether you’re a traditionalist, a strategic risk-taker, or a time-conscious player.
Other than the games, GameZone also features a tournament specifically curated for Tongits enjoyers, the Tongits Free Bonanza. It is composed of four free-to-enter tournaments that reward top players with great prizes. To join, just register through the GameZone website before every scheduled tournament.