Canasta is a form of rummy that is closer to a game called 500 Rum which is also similar to a game of rummy. Two, three, five, or six players can play this game but it is most commonly played with a total of four players separated into two groups. During the game of Canasta, players will work to make melds of seven cards of the same rank. Once this happens they can go out by laying all their cards down that is in their hands. This is the only game of rummy or rummy variant that allows partners to work so close together without having their own hands.

Canasta is from Uruguay and was quick to spread through Argentina, Peru, Brazil, and Chile. It eventually made it to the United States as well. During this time, the rules were refined and the game is played how we know it today. It was once referred to as Argentine Rummy and may still be called that by those who want to play Canasta.

The game starts with the player on the left side of the dealer. A turn will begin by the first card being drawn and then the player located clockwise to the first player will resume.

There are several variants of Canasta which include U.S. Canasta, Samba, Brazillian, Bolivian, Chilean, Cuban, Italian, Uruguay, Boat Canasta, and Hand & Foot Canasta just to name a few. Each variant will be played differently and have a different set of rules for each player to follow. Over the years, the rules and goals have changed but the main focus of this type of game stays the same. Rummy, no matter how it is played, is still fun and enjoyable for people all over the world.