Canasta is an intriguing hybrid game that has similarities to classic rummy but also adds special features that distinguish it from other variants. Played with two decks orummy nawabf cards and jokers, Canasta originated in Uruguay in the 1940s and has since become incredibly popular all over the world. Forming melds with seven or more cards of the same rank is the goal for individuals or groups. Players in Canasta are dealt eleven cards each, and they alternate between drawing from the discard pile and the stockpile.