Winning Strategies

We here at BIG2.WIN have compiled a short list of strategies that will help you take your game to the next level. These approaches will serve as a useful guide in your pursuit for victory throughout the game. The following tips are geared toward all those who want to increase their odds of winning while playing Big 2.

Never oppose the player before you unless you are sure to win the round

If you know you are going to lose the round, then try to help the player that goes before you win. This will allow you to go second for the next round, which is better than going third or last. However, being able to go first is a huge advantage, so winning the current round is an important goal if you have the cards to do so.

Always oppose the player after you if you have the ability to do so

This point is related to the previous one, where the idea is to avoid going last for the next round. If the player that comes after you wins the round, then you will be the last to have your turn during the next round, which is the worst position to be in. Thwarting the player in front of you with your strong cards will decrease their chances of winning the current round, leaving you in a more favourable position for the next round.

The ideal time to play the 2 of spades

If you are holding more cards than your opposition, and you see they are close to winning, then you should play the 2 of spades (also known as the "Big 2") if you have it. This will allow you some more time to try and liquidate your cards.

Read the table, the cards, and the players

These are the 3 most important skills to have when playing Big 2. Always keep tabs on the high cards (especially the 2s and aces) that have already been played. This information will allow you to have a better view of the table and will give you an edge towards the end of a game. Learn how to speed read your cards, i.e. how to quickly count the valid hands (Straight, Flush, Full House, etc) that can be made from the cards you are holding. Quickly recalling these hands from memory will allow you to act faster and take charge. Lastly, learn how to read your opponents and understand whether or not they know what they are doing. The more you play, the faster you will develop all of these skills. Experience is key.

Be on the offensive

When playing for money, be aggressive in your game and try to push the other players into multiple-card point deductions. The more cards they have left at the end of the game, the more money will come your way.