Some People's Parents - Articles

A game called Mao

Have you noticed young people playing a mysterious card game?
Are they reluctant to talk about the rules?
Are they so cagey about it they won't even say the name of the game until the game is over?
Don't worry, it's not a cult, it's "Mao", an interesting and very different card game that is becoming more popular in universities and high schools.

What's it about?
I would describe it as a satire of petty politics and extremely conformist organizations. If you wonder how a card game can be a satire, remember that card games have satirized real life since the Joker was added to the deck and some would say before that, when the royal cards started out with a Jack. The modern game, "Butt", also called "King" or "President", rewards the winning players in one hand with a better chance in the next one, at the expense of the losers - and then they often drop to a lower position anyway. Wouldn't you call that a satire of classism?

What do other people think of Mao?
My teenage son says, "It's not for everyone. Some people don't like it at all. One guy played for a few minutes, then threw down his cards and quit because the other players wouldn't tell him the rules."

Who likes Mao?

Logical people who enjoy puzzles.
Inquisitive and adventurous people who enjoy discovering new things - every game.
Creative leaders who like to guide others.
Social people who like to have fun with their friends.

Does Mao have anything in common with other games?
Yes. You have to pay attention like "Concentration". Other people's play affects yours, like it would in "Crazy Eights" or the board game, "Chinese Checkers".

How do you win at Mao?
In this respect, Mao is more like a party. Who "wins" at a party? I would say its whoever has a lot of fun, makes new friends, or shows off their style. Can't everybody win at a party?

Mao is at its best when you pay attention, relax, and enjoy yourself. It's a bit like life that way. The next time you see someone playing this mysterious card game, try it. You'll be glad you did.

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