Classic Durak: rules of the throw-in game

Classic Durak, also called Podkidnoy, is built around attack and defense. An attack cannot be transferred: the defender must cover every card or pick up the table.

Starting the game

You can choose a 24-, 36-, or 52-card deck. Players receive six cards and the face-up card beneath the stock shows the trump. The owner of the lowest trump attacks first.

Attack and throw-ins

The attacker leads one card. After a response, players may add ranks already present on the table. Trumps may be thrown in too when their rank matches.

The defender uses a higher card of the same suit or a trump. If the whole attack is covered, the table is discarded. If any card remains uncovered, the defender picks up everything.

Difference from Transfer Durak

Classic gives the defender two choices: cover the attack or pick it up. Transfer Durak adds the option to pass the attack to the next player with a matching rank.

A good first setup

For a first match, try two players, a 36-card deck, and no stake. The general rules explain draw order, attack limits, and how a game ends.