What is a run in rummy?

A run is the second type of meld, and it's all about sequence. Same suit, in order, at least three cards long.

Quick answer: A run - also called a sequence - is a meld of three or more consecutive cards all in the same suit, such as 6-7-8-9 of hearts. Because Aces are low in gin rummy, A-2-3 is a valid run but Q-K-A is not. Runs are one of the two ways to meld; the other is a set.

What makes a valid run

Three or more cards, all one suit, in consecutive rank. So 4-5-6 of clubs is a run, and you can extend it: 4-5-6-7 of clubs, or longer. Mixing suits breaks it - 4 of clubs, 5 of hearts, 6 of clubs is not a run. It's one of the two melds, alongside the set.

Aces are low

In gin rummy, Aces sit at the bottom of the ladder. That means A-2-3 of a suit is a perfectly good run, but Q-K-A is not, because the Ace can't sit above the King. This trips up players used to games where Aces are high - see are Aces high or low for more.

Building longer runs

Runs are flexible: a card you draw can extend a run at either end, and long runs are efficient because they clear lots of deadwood at once. After a knock, you can even lay off extra cards onto your opponent's runs to shrink your own deadwood.

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Related questions

What is a set in rummy?

A set - also called a group or book - is a meld of three or four cards of the same rank, such as three 9s or four Kings. Since there are only four suits, a set can hold at most four cards. Sets are one of the two ways to meld; the other is a run.

What is a meld in gin rummy?

A meld is a valid group of cards you form in your hand. There are two kinds: a set (three or four cards of the same rank, like three Kings) and a run (three or more consecutive cards in the same suit, like 5-6-7 of hearts). Any card in a meld doesn't count against you as deadwood.

Are Aces high or low in gin rummy?

Aces are low in gin rummy. That means A-2-3 of a suit is a valid run, but Q-K-A is not, because the Ace can't sit above the King. An Ace is also worth only 1 point as deadwood - the cheapest card to be caught holding.