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When it comes to card games in the Philippines, few are as iconic as Pusoy. Whether you’re playing with family during a fiesta or with friends online, this traditional Filipino card game has stood the test of time. And now, thanks to platforms like Nustabet, you can enjoy the thrill of Pusoy anytime, anywhere.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Pusoy is, how it differs from Pusoy Dos, and walk you through the basic rules and gameplay.
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What is Pusoy?
Pusoy—also known as Philippine Poker or 13-card poker—is a card game that blends elements of poker and Mahjong. Each player is dealt 13 cards from a standard 52-card deck. The goal is to arrange these cards into three hands:
- Front hand – 3 cards (lowest ranking hand)
- Middle hand – 5 cards (must be stronger than the front hand)
- Back hand – 5 cards (must be the strongest of all three hands)
Once players arrange their hands, they compare them against the corresponding hands of other players. Points are awarded based on how many hands you win in each round.
What is Pusoy Dos?
While Pusoy focuses on arranging 13 cards into specific hands, Pusoy Dos (Philippine Big Two) is a shedding game, where the objective is to get rid of all your cards first.
Key differences between Pusoy and Pusoy Dos:
Feature | Pusoy | Pusoy Dos |
Goal | Create three ranked hands | Be the first to play all cards |
Cards per player | 13 cards | 13 cards |
Play style | Compare hands at the end | Play cards in turns, following rank rules |
Winning | Points based on hand strength | Win by emptying your hand first |
How to Play Pusoy – Rules and Gameplay
Points are usually tallied after all hands are compared, with 1 point per winning position and possible extra bonuses for rare or special combinations.
- Number of Players: 2–4 (best with 4)
- Deck: Standard 52-card deck
- Card Ranking: From highest to lowest – 2, A, K, Q, J, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3
Step-by-Step Guide
- Deal the cards – Each player gets 13 cards.
- Arrange your hands –
Front: 3 cards
Middle: 5 cards
Back: 5 cards
(Back > Middle > Front in strength) - Compare hands – Compare each position with other players. Win more positions to score points.
- Scoring – Typically, 1 point per winning position, with bonuses for special combinations.
How to Play Pusoy Dos – Rules and Gameplay
While Pusoy Dos is typically played in quick rounds without point tallies, some versions award points or chips based on finishing order or the number of cards left in opponents’ hands, adding extra stakes to each game.
- Number of Players: 2–4 (best with 4)
- Deck: Standard 52-card deck
- Card Ranking: 2 is the highest, followed by A, K, Q, J… down to 3 (lowest)
- Suit Ranking: Spades > Hearts > Clubs > Diamonds
Step-by-Step Guide
- Deal the cards – 13 cards per player.
- Start the game – The player with the 3♦ usually starts.
- Follow or pass – Players must play a higher-ranking card or combination than the one on the table, or pass.
- Types of plays – Singles, pairs, triples, five-card poker hands (straight, flush, full house, four-of-a-kind, straight flush).
- Winning – The first to empty their hand wins.
Why Filipinos Love Pusoy and Pusoy Dos
- Social connection – Perfect for family gatherings, fiestas, and friendly bets.
- Simple but strategic – Easy to learn, but requires skill to master.
- Thrilling competition – Especially when playing for pride—or small wagers with friends.
With platforms like Nustabet, you don’t have to wait for the next holiday to play. You can jump into a Pusoy or Pusoy Dos game online and experience the same excitement in real time.
Play Pusoy Online at Nustabet
At Nustabet, Filipino players can enjoy Pusoy and Pusoy Dos with smooth gameplay, fair rules, and exciting rewards. Whether you’re a seasoned card shark or a casual player, our platform offers a safe and entertaining space to test your skills.
👉 Sign up at Nustabet today and join thousands of Filipino players who are winning big while enjoying their favorite traditional games online!
