BooRay (Bourré) Overview
BooRay, also known as Bourré, is a traditional trick-taking card game with origins deeply rooted in French culture. This game holds significant cultural importance in the southern United States, particularly in Louisiana, where it is cherished as a skillful and social pastime.
BooRay demands quick decision-making and strategic prowess, making it a favorite for in-person gatherings. While the dealer generally has a limited advantage, the NBA variation of the game introduces an exciting twist where the dealer can select the trump suit after examining his initial hand, adding a strategic layer to the game. Despite this, Bourré is best enjoyed in a peer-to-peer setting where various dealer strategies can unfold organically.
Learn More About SCCG Partner, BooRay Gaming
History and Origins
BooRay originated from French card games and was brought to the United States by French immigrants. It flourished in Louisiana, evolving into a beloved local pastime. The name “Bourré” is derived from the French word “bourrer,” meaning to stuff or fill, which reflects the strategy of filling one’s hand with winning cards.
Main Demographic
BooRay is especially popular among Cajun and Creole communities in Louisiana. It is a staple at family gatherings, social events, and informal settings like bars and homes. The game’s demographic is primarily high net worth individuals and celebrities, including NBA and NFL players, and musicians. While the game is favored by older generations, younger players also appreciate its cultural significance and the social interactions it fosters.
Relevance in the NBA, NFL, and Among Celebrities
BooRay has transcended its regional popularity, gaining a following among NBA players, NFL athletes, and celebrities. The game’s social and strategic nature makes it a favored pastime during downtime on plane trips between games. Notable players include Michael Jordan, Kevin Hart, and James Harden. Approximately 80% of the NBA play BooRay, often engaging in high-stakes games where the dealer’s privilege of choosing the trump suit after examining his initial hand adds excitement and strategy.
How to Play Bourré
Objective
The goal of BooRay is to win the majority of tricks in a round. A trick consists of each player playing one card, with the highest card of the leading suit or the highest trump card winning the trick.
Setup
- Players: Typically 4-8 players.
- Deck: Standard 52-card deck.
- Dealing: Each player is dealt 5 cards.
Gameplay
- Trump Selection: The dealer deals 5 cards to each player, then reveals the next card to determine the trump suit (the suit that can win over other suits). In the NBA version, the dealer can choose the trump suit after examining his initial hand.
- Discard and Draw: Players can discard unwanted cards and draw replacements from the deck. They must announce how many cards they wish to discard before receiving new ones.
- Trick-Taking:
- The player to the left of the dealer leads the first trick.
- Players must follow the lead suit if possible; if not, they can play a trump card or any other card.
- The highest card of the lead suit or the highest trump card wins the trick.
- Winning the Round:
- To win, a player must take at least three tricks.
- If no player takes three tricks, it is a ‘bourré,’ and penalties or payouts are determined based on the game’s betting rules.
Betting
- Ante: Before each round, players contribute an ante to the pot.
- Bets: Bets are placed before the discard and draw phase.
- Penalties: Players who fail to take any tricks must match the pot, doubling it.
Conclusion
Bourré is more than just a card game; it is a cultural tradition that brings people together. Whether played at family gatherings in Louisiana or during downtime among NBA players and celebrities, Bourré’s blend of skill, strategy, and social interaction continues to captivate players.
