Each card is given a point value with jokers having the highest number of points. There are many variations to canasta for two to three and six player games or even teams but some sites allow you to choose rules so you can play the game exactly as you are accustomed to!Ĭanasta is normally played with the standard 52card deck and four jokers. The objective of the game is make 'melds' of seven cards of the same rank (called a 'canasta') and 'go out' by playing all the cards in your hand or discarding them. When you play online canasta you can choose to play against the computer or between one to five opponents. Scoring: Bonuses are awarded for Canastas, with penalties for unmelded cards.Ĭanasta is a matching card game and is most commonly played by four players in teams of two.Gameplay: Players draw and discard, working to create melds and Canastas.The Deal: 11 cards to each player, with the remaining deck forming the stock.Card Values: Vary from 5 points (most numbers) to 50 points (Jokers).Objective: Form melds and Canastas, aiming to reach a predetermined score (usually 5,000).Number of Players: Usually played with 4 players in partnerships, but adaptable for 2 or 3 players.Canasta's blend of simplicity and complexity draws players of all levels.