Tam Cuc (三局, meaning "Three Rounds" or "Three Flowers") is a Vietnamese partnership card game traditionally played during Tet (Vietnamese New Year). Two teams of two compete to empty their hands through strategic card play. The game combines elements of trick-taking with shedding mechanics, making it accessible yet strategically deep. The name varies regionally - in some areas it is called Ba Bong (Three Flowers) or Tam Cuc (Three Chrysanthemums), referring to the special three-card combination that gives the game its name.

How many players can play?

| Players | Works? | Notes | | ------- | -------------- | ------------------------------------- | | 4 | Yes (standard) | Two teams of two, partners sit across | | 2 | Possible | Each player plays two hands | | 3 | Not standard | Uneven teams make it awkward | | 6 | Variant | Some families play with 3 teams of 2 |

A standard 52-card deck is used. No jokers. Some regional variations use a special Vietnamese deck with military-themed artwork, but the card values and gameplay remain the same.

Empty your hand first. Your team wins when either partner empties their hand before both opponents. The key strategy is helping your partner while blocking opponents.

What is the highest card?

The 2 of Spades (2♠) is the highest single card in the game, followed by the other 2s in suit order (Hearts, Diamonds, Clubs).

What is the complete card order?

High to low: 2, A, K, Q, J, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3. Within each rank, suits are ordered Spades > Hearts > Diamonds > Clubs.

What is the Tam Cuc combination?

The Tam Cuc combination means holding three of the four 2s in your hand simultaneously. This powerful combination beats all other card combinations except holding all four 2s (which is extremely rare). When you declare Tam Cuc, it signals dominance and often results in bonus scoring.

Can 2s be used in straights?

No. The 2 is a special card in Tam Cuc and cannot be included in straight (sequence) combinations. It can only be played as a single card or as part of a pair/triple of 2s.

The player holding the 3 of Clubs (3♣) leads the first trick. In subsequent rounds, the winner of the previous round typically leads first, though house rules vary.

Can I pass even if I have playable cards?

Yes. You can always choose to pass, even if you hold cards that could beat the current trick. This is a key strategic element - sometimes it is better to save strong cards for later tricks rather than winning the current one.

What happens when everyone passes?

The last player to successfully play cards wins the trick and leads the next one. They can play any valid combination to start the new trick.

What combinations can I play?

Common valid combinations include: - **Single card**: Any individual card - **Pair**: Two cards of the same rank - **Triple**: Three cards of the same rank - **Straight**: 3+ consecutive cards of the same suit (no 2s allowed) - **Tam Cuc**: Three 2s (beats almost everything)

Card Games

Tam Cúc (三局)

Beginner

Vietnamese Tet Card Game

A traditional Vietnamese trick-taking game played during Tet (Lunar New Year). Uses a special deck of cards with military ranks. A beloved family tradition combining luck and strategy.

Reviewed by Card Games Academy Editorial Team · Traditional Card Games Researchers

Last Updated: March 28, 2026

Tam Cúc (三局) is a 2-4-player card game that typically lasts 20-30 min. Start with the core rules first, then move to strategy and FAQ to improve your win rate.