A lot of people are going to tell you that all rummy games are based on luck and this is not actually true. In fact, most players that really know how to play will tell you that you need to know at least basic strategy in order to be successful and luck will play its part but not on a long run basis. This is because there are different ways in which you can play and the fact that Okey has a different set of scoring rules will immediately mean that your regular game play has to be adjusted to these changes.

What you will need to know about okey basic strategy is the fact that you need to be patient in order to learn how to win okey. This patience translates in attention being paid to all the tiles that are discarded or taken from the table. In fact, while it is not your turn you need to pay attention to what the other players are doing. You are only wasting time and losing valuable information in the event that you keep focused on your board alone.

You might end up not noticing some tiles that are moving around, tiles that would make your sets or runs. If this happens you will want to change the runs and sets you are aiming for so that you can have a much higher chance of making a good hand.

A failure to be attentive to the other players will also have a negative impact on the tiles you are discarding. You might end up giving good tiles away if you do not at least assume what the player to act after you is trying to win with. If you analyze his play you can see the cards that he needs and never hand them over. You can just keep them or, alternatively, if it is possible, use them to create a good hand before he does.

Another important part of basic strategy stands in choosing what hands to play. It is not at all recommended to go after the 7 pairs win, unless you are either well ahead in points or well behind. In any case, only try this winning hand in the event that you get at least 2 pairs from the start. By following these simple tips above you will have a grasp of basic okey strategy that is needed to be a successful player.