The Complete Guide to Rummy: History, Rules, Strategies, and More The card game rummy has delighted players for centuries, and its diverse history reflects how it has changed over time across continents & culturglobal slotses. Many historians contend that the Spanish game "Conquian," which is frequently cited as the forerunner of contemporary rummy, is where it all began in the early 19th century. The game saw many modifications as it traveled from Mexico to the US, giving rise to the different iterations that are still in use today. Because it balances skill & chance, the game is appealing to both casual players and serious strategists.