The Complete Guide to Rummy: Background, Rules, Variations, & More The card game rummy has been a player favorite for centuries, dating back to the early 1800srefusal slots. Although the precise origins of the game are still somewhat unknown, it is generally accepted that Rummy developed from earlier card games like the Mexican-originated Conquian. Because it uses similar card-melding mechanics to create sets and runs, Conquian is frequently considered the forerunner of modern Rummy.