A Brief History of Prší

Prší (pronounced prsh-ee, meaning “it is raining” in Czech and Slovak) is a traditional and widely cherished card game played throughout the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Although often compared to Mau-Mau and Crazy Eights, Prší has a distinct set of rules and a unique cultural identity. This article explores the origins, gameplay mechanics, cultural significance, and modern adaptations of Prší as a beloved game of Central Europe.

Origins and Evolution

Prší belongs to a family of shedding-type card games, where players aim to be the first to discard all their cards. These games likely have European origins dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, though their roots can be traced further to Middle Eastern card traditions introduced to Europe in the late medieval period.

Prší likely evolved as a regional adaptation of Mau-Mau, which itself was a simplified form of older German and Austrian card games like “Neunerln.” It took on a life of its own during the 20th century, especially after World War II, becoming a standard part of childhood and family recreation in both Czechoslovakia and, later, the independent Czech and Slovak republics.

Prší is typically played with the 32-card German-suited “Mariáš“ deck, although a French-suited equivalent (7 through Ace in each suit) technically can be used.

Gameplay and Rules

Objective

To be the first player to discard all cards.

Setup

  • A 32-card deck is used (7 through Ace in each suit).
  • Each player is dealt four cards.
  • The rest forms a draw pile, with the top card turned face-up to start the discard pile.

Playing a Turn

Players take turns clockwise. A player may discard a card if it matches the rank or suit of the top card on the discard pile. If they cannot play, they must draw one card and pass their turn. The game includes several special rules for action cards:

  • Seven: The next player must draw two cards and lose their turn. If they respond with another 7, the penalty stacks.
  • Ace: The next player loses their turn.
  • Upper Jack: The player may declare a new suit, which the next player must follow.

The first player to discard all their cards wins the round. There is no requirement to announce when a player has only one card remaining, unlike in games like Uno.

Cultural Significance in Czech and Slovak Society

Prší is considered one of the quintessential Czech and Slovak games, often played at school, home, and summer camps. For many children, it is the first card game they learn. It is also a common pastime in pubs, trains, and family gatherings, offering a quick and engaging break without needing large setups or long playing time.

The simplicity of Prší and the relatively small deck make it ideal for social play, and its special card effects add just enough complexity to keep games exciting and competitive.

Regional Variants and House Rules

While the core rules are consistent, regional differences exist between players in the Czech Republic and Slovakia — or even among households. Some allow additional actions for cards like the King, play with larger hands or point-based systems for multi-round play.

The digitization of Prší ensures that new generations, both within the Czech and Slovak Republics and abroad, can learn and enjoy the game.

Conclusion

Prší represents more than just a game; it is a part of Czech and Slovak cultural heritage. It is easy to learn, rich in social value, and adaptable to changing times. Its continued popularity—both around the family table and on smartphones—demonstrates the game’s enduring appeal. Whether played with a traditional deck in a mountain cottage or on an app during a train ride, Prší continues to bring people together across generations.