Each round in the billiards-themed trick-taking game TRICQ SHOT, you start with a hand of cards that feature both a letter and a rank: As are 1-5, Bs are 2-6, etc.

Each player secretly “pockets” a card from their hand to indicate whether they’re stripes or solids, then the round’s lead player announces whether cards are better in ascending or descending order.

In a trick, the lead player lays down a card, then the next player must follow with a card of the same letter or rank, if possible. As more cards are played, you can imagine balls ricocheting on the table, with the possibilities for which cards can be played increasing.

The round ends when the 8-ball hits the table, then you score 1 point for the cards that match your pocket card and lose 1 point for other cards. When someone has at least 8 points, the game ends.