Operation cards

The core deck uses arithmetic operation cards: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These cards are the main tools for moving pile values toward 61. Addition and subtraction are easy to read, but multiplication and division often create the biggest swings.

Addition

Addition cards push a pile upward. They are often the cleanest finishing cards because a pile close to 61 may only need one exact addition value. They can also be used defensively if adding to an opponent's pile makes their next route worse.

Subtraction

Subtraction cards pull a pile downward and cannot take a pile below 1. They are useful for repairing your own pile after overshooting a good route, and they are one of the most direct ways to move an opponent away from a likely finish.

Multiplication and division

Multiplication cards can turn a modest pile into a sudden threat. A value that looks harmless may become dangerous if it can be multiplied into the 50s or close enough for a small follow-up. Because multiplication can also overshoot, strong players look for values that multiply into useful ranges rather than simply choosing the largest result.

Division cards reduce a pile, but only when the result is a whole number. That clean-division rule is important. A pile that cannot be divided by the card in hand may be safer than it looks, while an even pile can be vulnerable to a well-timed division.

Play-again cards

Play-again cards let you keep your turn after the card resolves. Their value comes from tempo. A normal card changes one pile once. A play-again card can create a new value and then immediately use another card before opponents get a response.

• Multiply or divide by 2: changes a pile sharply while keeping your turn.
• Reverse digits: can transform values in surprising ways, such as changing a two-digit pile into a very different route.
• Add or subtract 10: creates a controlled swing and can set up exact finishes or defensive repairs.

Swap cards and deck shape

Swap cards exchange piles with another player. They are rare, so the timing matters. A swap can steal a pile that is close to 61, escape from a weak pile, or punish a player who built a strong position too early. Because swaps change ownership instead of only changing value, they often matter most when one pile is clearly better than the others.

The deck contains 54 cards: 11 addition cards, 11 subtraction cards, 9 multiplication cards, 9 division cards, 4 of each play-again card, and 2 swap cards. Knowing that mix helps you judge risk. Common operation cards appear often enough to plan around. Rare cards should be treated as high-impact tools rather than throwaway plays.