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General Questions
Is Russian Bank the same as Crapette?
Yes! Russian Bank and Crapette are different names for the same game. It is also known as Robuse in some regions. The game originated in Russia and became popular across Europe, acquiring various names along the way.
How many players is Russian Bank for?
Russian Bank is primarily a 2-player game. Each player uses their own 52-card deck. While some variants support more players, the standard game is designed for two.
Rules Questions
Can I play on my opponent's houses?
Yes, you can play cards onto your opponent's house columns. This is a valid strategic move used to block your opponent with unhelpful cards. Cards on houses must follow the alternating color, descending rank rule regardless of which player's side they are on.
When does my turn end?
Your turn ends when you flip a card from your draw pile to the waste and cannot play it anywhere. As long as you have valid moves from your stock, waste, or houses, your turn continues. Foundation plays are compulsory and must be made before other moves.
Can I move stacks of cards between houses?
No. In Russian Bank, only single cards may be moved between house columns. This differs from many solitaire games that allow moving entire sequences.
Touch Challenge Questions
What happens if I miss a foundation play?
If you miss a compulsory foundation play, your opponent can call “Touch!” to challenge you. The board freezes and the challenger must demonstrate the missed move within the time limit. If proven, you lose your turn.
How long is the Touch timer?
The default Touch proof timer is 30 seconds. During this time, the challenger must demonstrate the compulsory move that was missed on the frozen board state.
What if the Touch challenge fails?
If the challenger fails to prove a missed compulsory move within the time limit (or demonstrates an invalid move), the challenge fails and the active player continues their turn normally. In some variants, a failed challenge may incur a penalty for the challenger.
Strategy Questions
Should I always play to foundations immediately?
Yes — foundation plays are compulsory in Russian Bank. You must play to foundations whenever possible. Missing a foundation play gives your opponent grounds for a Touch challenge.
When should I call Touch?
Call Touch when you are confident your opponent missed a compulsory move and you can demonstrate it within the time limit. False challenges waste an opportunity and keep your opponent in control.