Frequently Asked Questions about Tien Len (Thirteen)
Essential Rules & Gameplay
1. What beats a 2 (Heo) in Tien Len?
Answer: In Southern Tien Len, a single 2 can be beaten (chopped) by:
- Four of a Kind (Quads): e.g., 5-5-5-5.
- 3 Pairs of Consecutive Sequences (3 Pine Pairs): e.g., 3-3, 4-4, 5-5.
- 4 Pairs of Consecutive Sequences (4 Pine Pairs): e.g., 3-3, 4-4, 5-5, 6-6 (beats a Pair of 2s).
2. Can I win with a 2 as my last card?
Answer: It depends on the regional variation:
- Southern Style (Mien Nam): YES. You are allowed to play a 2 (or any card/combo) as your final play to win.
- Northern Style (Mien Bac): NO. Playing a 2 as your last card is forbidden and results in an instant loss known as "Thối" (Rotten).
3. What is an "Instant Win" (Tới Trắng)?
Answer: You win immediately after the cards are dealt (no play required) if you have:
- Dragon Hall: A sequence from 3 to Ace (3-4-5...K-A).
- Four 2s: All four 2s in your hand.
- 5 Pairs of Pine: 5 consecutive pairs (e.g., 3-3, 4-4, 5-5, 6-6, 7-7).
- 6 Pairs: Any 6 pairs (e.g., 3-3, 5-5, 8-8, J-J, K-K, A-A).
Strategy & Penalties
4. What is the penalty for a "Rotten" 2 (Thối Heo)?
Answer: If the round ends and you are last while holding a 2, you suffer a penalty:
- Black 2 (Spade/Club): Usually 1/2 of the bet amount.
- Red 2 (Heart/Diamond): Usually 1 full bet amount.
- Note: You pay the standard loss penalty PLUS the rotten card penalty.
5. What does "Frozen" (Cóng) mean?
Answer: If a player finishes 1st (clears all cards) and you haven't played a single card yet, you are "Frozen" (Cóng). Penalty: You typically pay double the loss amount, plus penalties for any 2s or special combinations (Quads, Pine Pairs) currently in your hand.
6. Can I break a sequence to play a card?
Answer: Yes. You can break any pair, triple, or sequence in your hand to play a single card or a different combination, provided it follows the rules of the round. Strategic breaking is key to winning.