What Is Super 10?
Super 10 (also known as Sam Gong or Three Pictures in some regions) is a popular card game played across Southeast Asia and beyond. The goal is simple: build a hand whose card values total as close to 10 as possible — without going over, or by hitting special combinations that beat any standard hand.
The game is fast-paced, easy to learn, and rewards both luck and smart decision-making. Whether you're sitting down for the first time or brushing up on the official rules, this guide covers everything you need to get started.
The Objective
Each player is dealt three cards. The aim is to have a hand value as close to 10 as possible. Only the last digit of your total counts — so a hand totaling 20 has a value of 0, and a hand totaling 19 has a value of 9.
Card Values in Super 10
| Card | Value |
|---|---|
| Ace (A) | 1 |
| 2 – 9 | Face value |
| 10, Jack (J), Queen (Q), King (K) | 0 (or 10) |
Picture cards (J, Q, K) and 10s are all worth zero when calculating point totals. However, three picture cards together form a Special Hand — one of the highest-ranking combinations in the game.
How a Round Is Played
- Ante up: All players place their initial bets before cards are dealt.
- Deal: The dealer gives each player three cards, face down.
- Reveal: Players reveal their cards simultaneously and compare hand values.
- Determine the winner: The player with the highest hand value wins. Special hands beat any standard point total.
- Payout: Winners are paid according to the agreed bet amounts and hand type.
Special Hands (Priority Over Points)
Certain three-card combinations automatically win regardless of an opponent's point total. These are ranked higher than any numeric hand:
- Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank (e.g., three Kings).
- Straight Flush: Three cards of the same suit in consecutive order.
- Three Picture Cards (Super 10): Any combination of J, Q, K, and/or 10 — giving the game its name.
When two players both hold special hands, specific tie-breaking rules apply based on hand rank (see our Hand Rankings guide for full details).
Number of Players
Super 10 is typically played with 2 to 6 players. One player acts as the dealer (or a designated banker in some formats). The dealer role may rotate each round or stay fixed, depending on the variant being played.
Winning and Losing
- If your hand value is higher than the dealer's, you win even money on your bet.
- If your hand value is lower, you lose your stake.
- In a tie, the result depends on house or table rules — most commonly the dealer wins ties.
Key Rules to Remember
- Only the last digit of a total counts — 10 = 0, 19 = 9, 20 = 0.
- Special hands always beat point-based hands.
- Three picture cards (the "Super 10" hand) is the most famous special combination.
- Suits have no value in standard point calculation — only card ranks matter.
Ready to Play?
Super 10 is one of the easiest card games to learn, but mastering the timing, betting, and special hand recognition takes practice. Once you're comfortable with the rules, explore our Strategy & Tips section to start sharpening your edge at the table.