Rules and concepts
What is a Coto in Tute and Guiñote?
A coto is a set of games in Guiñote, a trick-taking game from Aragon, and Tute, one of Spain's most popular trick-taking games. The pair that first wins the agreed number of games, for example two out of three, wins the coto. Playing this way makes a single run of good cards less decisive.
Partida, juego and coto
- Mano: the dealing of the cards and all its tricks.
- Partida or juego (Game): ends when someone reaches the agreed-upon points (in Guiñote, usually 101).
- Coto: the group of games that must be won to claim overall victory.
Why play with cotos?
Because a single partida can be decided by getting lucky with the cards. With several games, skill outweighs luck. This is why championships in Navarra and Aragon usually function this way. We discuss this in luck or skill.
Losing a coto due to a renuncio
At some tables, a serious renuncio (a revoke or breaking of a rule) is punished by awarding the entire coto to the opponent. It hurts, but it is a good way to ensure everyone pays attention. If you are going to organise something with friends, check out how to organise a championship.
Frequently asked questions
How many games make up a coto?
It is most common to play the best of three or five games, but this is agreed upon by the players at each table.
Are cotos used in tournaments?
Yes, especially in Guiñote and Tute (popular trick-taking games) championships, to ensure that the luck of a single game carries less weight.