Rummy is a family of games all sharing the "draw and discard" structure. Besides this unique play pattern, the main goal is to get rid of all of the cards in your hand by forming either sets or runs. All of the Rummy games contain some kind of a scoring system making the play for money much more attractive.

One of the earliest card games to incorporate this play pattern is the Chinese card game from the 18th century named Mahjong. Soon enough, many western versions appeared worldwide; bearing names such Conquian, kanhoo and others. The common assumption regarding the swift spread of these card games and their variations is attributed to Chinese immigrants, British and Portuguese merchants who were familiarized with the game during their stay in the mainland.

The most popular variant of the game is Gin Rummy. Most versions state that the game was invented in New York during the early decades of the 20th century.

It is believed the game's name derives from its inventor's fondness of the alcoholic drink of Gin. The game became most popular when it was adopted by Hollywood's elite and famous movie stars back in the 1930's for they enjoyed playing this exciting and quick game on the set during takes. Another reason for the game popularity is believed to result from the great depression period, when people did not have many financial resources to engage in outdoors entertainment activity, and turned for some indoors quality time with family and friends.

In the last couple of years, many Rummy variants have gone online, offering players from all over the world to join in play and enjoy the variety of the game entertaining qualities. Whether it's about people who grew up playing the game or the new ones to pick them up, the games are here to stay for many generations to come. Joining people in play and providing them with the ultimate quality time, the game continue to play a dominant role and always have a special, fun and exciting variation to offer to each and every one of us.

The question of origin of rummy is not able to produce any definite answer. As there exists difference of opinion and thus it is hard to trace the actual one, and further all the theories are based on real facts and that cannot be ignored.