The deck consists of 78 cards, including 56 traditional suit cards (Spades, Diamonds, Clubs, Hearts), 21 trump cards where a higher number indicates stronger cards, and 1 wildcard (the Excuse). The key cards, known as Oudlers, are the 1, 21, and the Excuse, which are crucial for scoring.
Scoring values are as follows: Oudlers and Kings are worth 5 points each; Queens are worth 4 points; Knights are worth 3 points; Jacks are worth 2 points; other cards are valued at 0.5 points each.
For four players, the 'taker' aims to accumulate points based on the number of Oudlers held, with point thresholds adjusted by the presence of Oudlers: 56 points are required without any, down to 36 points with all three. In a five-player game, the objective for the 'taker' is to score points against four defending players, with point requirements similar to the four-player game.
Cards are dealt three at a time, with a side pile called the 'dog' set aside for the taker to potentially use. Players must follow the suit played if possible; otherwise, they can play a trump card. The Excuse can be used to avoid losing a trick but doesn't win any.
The game ends once all cards are played, and points are tallied to determine the winner.