Sauspiel (Rufspiel)
The most popular Schafkopf game mode - partner play with a secret ally
What is Sauspiel?
Sauspiel (also called Rufspiel) is the foundational and most commonly played Schafkopf variant. The name means "Sow game" - referring to the Ace (Sau/Sow) that is called to find a partner.
The declaring player (Spielmacher) calls a non-trump Ace. Whoever holds that Ace becomes their secret partner, and together they play 2 vs 2 against the defenders.
Sound familiar? This is the same concept as Sheepshead's "called ace" variant! The rules are nearly identical.
How to Play Sauspiel
1Declare Sauspiel
During bidding, announce "I'll play" (Ich spiele). Unless someone bids higher (Wenz, Solo), you become the Spielmacher (declarer).
2Call an Ace
Choose a non-trump Ace (Acorns, Leaves, or Bells - not Hearts). You must have at least one card of that suit in your hand.
Example: "Ich spiele mit der Eichel-Sau" (I play with the Acorn Ace)
3Secret Partner Revealed
The player holding the called Ace is now your partner - but nobody knows who until the Ace is played!
The Called Ace Rule
When the called suit is led, the holder must play the Ace immediately. This reveals the partner to all players.
4Play the Tricks
Play 8 tricks following standard Schafkopf rules. The declaring team (Spielmacher + partner) needs 61+ points to win.
Trump Cards in Sauspiel
There are 14 trump cards in Sauspiel. Hearts is always the trump suit.
Obers (Highest)
Unters
Hearts (Trump Suit)
Which Ace to Call?
Choosing the right Ace is critical. Consider these factors:
Best: Suit where you have length
If you have 3-4 cards in a suit (not including the Ace), call that suit. You can control when the Ace appears.
Good: Suit where you have A-10
If you hold both Ace and Ten of a suit, you don't need to call that suit - your partner will have something else useful.
Avoid: Suit where you're void
You must have at least one card of the called suit. Otherwise the call is illegal.
Davonlaufen (Running Away)
If you hold the called Ace and have 4+ cards of that suit, you can "run away" (davonlaufen):
- •Instead of playing the Ace when your suit is led, play a different card of that suit
- •This reveals you as the partner without losing your Ace immediately
- •After running away, you can play the Ace whenever you want
Example: You hold Gras-Ace plus Gras-King, Gras-Nine, Gras-Eight, Gras-Seven (5 cards). When Gras is led, you can play the King instead of the Ace. Everyone now knows you're the partner.
Sauspiel Strategy
As Spielmacher (Declarer)
- • Lead trump early to draw out defenders' trumps
- • Try to find your partner before committing to risky plays
- • Protect the called suit until you know who has the Ace
As Partner
- • Schmear (throw points) to your partner's winning tricks
- • Signal your partnership through your play choices
- • Leading trump can signal you're the partner
As Defender
- • Lead the called suit to force out the Ace and reveal the partner
- • Watch for signals - who's throwing points to whom?
- • Once the partner is known, coordinate with your teammate
Sauspiel vs Sheepshead
Sauspiel is essentially the same as Sheepshead's "called ace" variant! Key differences:
| Feature | Sauspiel | Sheepshead |
|---|---|---|
| Players | 4 | 5 (standard) |
| Trump Suit | Hearts | Diamonds |
| Blind | None | 2 cards |
| Cards per Hand | 8 | 6 |