How can I improve at this game?

[CameronHamill]

Hi Members,

I'm just wondering if you have any general strategy ideas for Schotten Totten? I can't seem to get the hang of this game somehow. I understand how the game plays well.

I normally try to make as many colour runs as I can but rarely can I complete them. I think I have major flaws in my approach to the game. Do you think watching replays is the way to go or perhaps playing friendly games until I get the hang of it?

[Shobu]

For reference, it's a follow-up to this discussion: https://boardgamearena.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=45323

- I always go for flush runs, but rarely commit early if there's a gap (ex: i will play 67, but not 57). 5 7 is still acceptable if time/space is running out as a flush meld will only become stronger and stronger.
- i try to control momentum by placing a higher card than my opponent on a border
- i try not commit too early on a triple, to keep the run flush / flush flexibility. I only commit early to a triple if it's a mid~high value AND superior to my opponent card, Sometimes i play low triple on side to draw more cards / pressure opponent to waste a good meld
- i sacrifice some borders by playing low values on the sides, it also allow me to get rid of some card while waiting to draw some needed cards for run flush.
- i always focus on building two or three strong well plced melds to avoid the 3 adjacents border win. I may play them early if available, or late if the draw is not friendly
- i always try not to play cards that may provide useful information to my opponent (for example, if i know he can't make a run or a triple, i will keep that info private to win that border at a bargain cost)
- and maybe the most important, it's still a game of luck so i visualize the board as a layout of different probabilities (usually 75/50/25%) which usually dictates my plays order

[CameronHamill]

Thanks very much for your insights Shobu! About Schotten Totten and 6 nimmt! It is very useful information! I will attempt some 1 round classic matches with these ideas in mind. I'm not too bad at Rummikub and naively thought I'd become good at Schotten Totten and 6 nimmt! I enjoy the challenge of becoming better at games through practice and persistence though.

Thank you once again for taking the time to write your thoughts here and in the 6 nimmt! thread. I very much appreciate this.