Want to know how to play Botifarra? You're in the right place. This game, one of the pillars of Catalan culture, mixes strategy, memory and complicity. Although it may seem complex at first due to the card hierarchy, with this visual guide based on our app you'll understand the mechanics in a few minutes.
Below, we break down the essential rules into 10 key steps.
1
Welcome to the Botifarra game
The first golden rule: Botifarra is a team game. It's always played in pairs (two vs two), with partners seated across from each other. You don't play alone; your actions directly affect your partner.
Step 1
2
The Goal: Reach 101 points
A Botifarra game doesn't end in a single hand. It's a long-distance race. The game ends when one of the two pairs exceeds 101 points.
Step 2
3
Card order and values
This is the most important point for beginners. Forget the traditional numerical scale. Here, the 9 is king.
Step 3
4
Dealing and preparation
It's played with a Spanish deck of 48 cards. In each hand, 12 cards are dealt to each player (the whole deck is distributed).
Step 4
5
Deciding which suit rules ("Making trump")
The first player has the responsibility to decide the round's strategy.
Step 5
6
How a trick works
The game develops by turns. The lead player throws a card on the table.
Step 6
7
Who wins the trick?
Once all 4 players have played their card, it's decided who takes the pile.
Step 7
8
How are points counted?
At the end of the hand, the points from the tricks each pair has won are counted.
Step 8
9
Strategy: How to play as a team?
To be a good Botifarra player, you have to think about your partner.
Step 9
10
You're ready to start playing!
The theory is clear. Now it's time to practice. The best way to learn to count cards and guess what rivals have is by playing real games.
Step 10
Ready for your first game?
Put what you've learned to the test: the beta is live and we're waiting for you.
Become a tester