Pharaoh - card game 3.0

Each player is dealt 5 cards and players take turns in a fixed order. The first player to empty their hand wins. A single card is placed in the middle of the table as the central card pile, with the remaining cards forming a side deck.

To play a card, it must match either the value or the suit of the top card on the central pile. Alternatively, a player may draw a card from the side deck if they are unable to play. Multiple cards of the same rank (excluding aces) can be played simultaneously. If a player holds all four cards of the same rank and plays them together, they may continue their turn.

Special cards add strategic depth to the game. Playing an ace causes the next player to skip their turn unless they can also play an ace. A seven card forces the following player to draw 3 cards, unless they play another seven, escalating to drawing 6 cards and beyond. Moreover, playing a seven of hearts can reintroduce a player who previously emptied their hand back into play. Queens can be played regardless of the current suit, allowing the player to specify the next suit. The Jack of Spades, known as 'The Pharaoh', acts as a trump card, canceling out the effects of sevens when played and accepting any other card on top.

The application offers Pharaoh against one, two, or three computer-controlled opponents. It provides options to customize animation speed, enable sound effects, and alter the design of card graphics.