Card games
Scala 40
Open with 40, stay under 101
Scala 40 is the rummy Italy grew up with: two decks and four jokers, 13 cards each, and an opening of 40 points before you may touch the discard. The cards left in your hand add to your score every hand — reach 101 and you are out, and the last player still in wins.
- Players
- 4 players
- Length
- 20–40 min per game
- Type
- Card games
Play Scala 40 online with friends
At Masa, Scala 40 is a game of its own right next to 51 Rummy: pick it in the games list, open a table and share its code or link with your friends, or sit at a house table. Bots fill the empty chairs, and voice chat keeps the table talking.
How to play
- 1
Scala 40: two decks with 4 jokers, 13 cards each. Meld runs (3+ in a row, one suit) and sets (3–4 of a rank, suits different). A player who reaches 101 points is out; the last player in wins.
- 2
Open with melds worth 40+ in one turn (no pairs). A-2-3 and Q-K-A both count: the ace is 1 low, 11 high and in sets.
- 3
Draw from the stock. Only after you have opened may you take the last discard — and you must meld it or lay it off at once.
- 4
Never discard a card that fits a meld on the table (your last card excepted), nor a joker before you open.
- 5
One joker per meld. Once you have opened, swap a table joker for the card it stands for.
Frequently asked questions
Is Scala 40 the same game as 51 Rummy?
No. Scala 40 is played at the same kind of table as 51 Rummy, but with rules of its own — see “How to play” above. At Masa it is a game of its own, with its own tables, stats and achievements.
Can I play Scala 40 online with friends?
Yes. Open a Scala 40 table and share its code or link. Empty seats fill with other players or bots, so a game always starts.
Is Scala 40 free to play?
Yes. You play with Chips, which have no cash value: nothing can be won or cashed out.
