Loteraya: A Fun and Colorful Mexican Game of Chance
If you are looking for a fun and easy way to learn about Mexican culture, you might want to try playing loteraya. Loteraya is a traditional game of chance, similar to bingo, but using images on a deck of cards instead of numbered balls. Every image has a name and an assigned number, but the number is usually ignored. Loteraya is more than just a game, it is also a form of art, education, and identity that reflects the diversity and richness of Mexico. In this article, we will explore what loteraya is, how it is played, why it is popular, and how you can play it at home or online.
loteraya
What is loteraya and how is it played?
Loteraya (Spanish word meaning "lottery") is a game that originated in Italy in the 15th century and was brought to Mexico by the Spanish colonizers in the 18th century. It was initially a hobby of the upper classes, but eventually it became a tradition at Mexican fairs and celebrations. Loteraya is played with a deck of 54 cards, each with a different picture and name. Some of the most common pictures are el gallo (the rooster), la dama (the lady), el catrín (the gentleman), la sirena (the mermaid), el diablito (the little devil), and la muerte (death).
To play loteraya, each player needs at least one tabla, a board with a randomly created 4 x 4 grid of pictures with their corresponding name and number. Players choose a tabla from a variety of previously created tablas, each with a different selection of images. A designated card announcer randomly picks a card from the deck and announces it to the players by its name, sometimes using a verse or a riddle before reading the card name. For example, the announcer might say "El que canta su mal espanta" (He who sings scares away his troubles) before revealing el gallo. Each player locates the matching picture of the card just announced on their board and marks it off with a chip or other kind of marker. In Mexico, it is traditional to use small rocks, crown corks or pinto beans as markers. The winner is the first player that shouts "Lotería!" or "Buena!" right after completing a tabla or a previously agreed pattern: row, column, diagonal, or a pozo (a special combination).
The origin and history of loteraya
Loteraya has a long and fascinating history that spans centuries and continents. The game originated in Italy in the 15th century as a form of lottery that was used to raise funds for public projects. It then spread to Spain, where it was adapted to include images instead of numbers. The Spanish brought the game to Mexico in 1769, where it was initially played by the aristocracy.
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The game underwent several changes over time to reflect the social norms and political events of Mexico. One of the best known versions was created by Frenchman Clemente Jacques in 1887. His version featured colorful illustrations that became iconic in Mexican culture. He also copyrighted his version in 1913, which gave him exclusive rights to produce and distribute the game in Mexico. His version was also distributed to. the United States, where it became popular among the Mexican-American communities.
Another influential version was created by Don Clemente Gallo in 1910. His version featured images that represented the Mexican Revolution, such as el soldado (the soldier), el valiente (the brave one), and la bandera (the flag). His version also introduced new verses and riddles for the card announcer to use.
Today, loteraya is still widely played in Mexico and other parts of the world. It has also inspired many artists and activists to create their own versions of the game, using different themes and images to express their views and values. Some examples are loteraya feminista (feminist loteraya), loteraya LGBT+ (LGBT+ loteraya), loteraya de la resistencia (loteraya of resistance), and loteraya de los muertos (loteraya of the dead).
The symbols and meanings of the loteraya cards
The loteraya cards are not only colorful and attractive, but also full of symbolism and meaning. Each card represents an aspect of Mexican culture, history, or folklore. Some cards have religious connotations, such as el corazón (the heart), la estrella (the star), el mundo (the world), and el ángel (the angel). Some cards have historical references, such as el soldado, el valiente, la bandera, and el apache (the Apache). Some cards have folkloric elements, such as la sirena, el diablito, la calavera (the skull), and el nopal (the cactus). Some cards have everyday objects or animals, such as el barril (the barrel), la botella (the bottle), el perro (the dog), and el pescado (the fish).
Each card also has a deeper meaning or message that can be interpreted in different ways. For example, el gallo can symbolize courage, pride, or singing. La dama can symbolize beauty, elegance, or femininity. El catrín can symbolize wealth, sophistication, or deception. La sirena can symbolize fantasy, seduction, or danger. El diablito can symbolize mischief, temptation, or evil. La muerte can symbolize fate, change, or transformation.
Some cards also have a humorous or ironic twist that reflects the Mexican sense of humor. For example, el borracho (the drunk) is next to la botella, el músico (the musician) is next to el violoncello (the cello), el alacrán (the scorpion) is next to la rosa (the rose), and la escalera (the ladder) is next to el cañón (the cannon).
The variations and adaptations of loteraya
Loteraya is a game that can be easily modified and adapted to suit different preferences and occasions. There are many variations of loteraya that use different rules, patterns, prizes, or themes. Some of the most common variations are:
Loteraya rápida: A fast-paced version where the announcer picks two cards at a time instead of one.
Loteraya inversa: A reverse version where the winner is the last player to complete a tabla or a pattern.
Loteraya acumulada: An accumulated version where the winner gets all the prizes from previous rounds that were not claimed.
Loteraya personalizada: A personalized version where the players create their own tablas with pictures of their choice.
Loteraya temática: A thematic version where the cards and tablas are based on a specific topic, such as movies, music, sports, or animals.
Loteraya can also be adapted to different languages and cultures. For example, there are versions of loteraya in English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and other languages. There are also versions of loteraya that use images from other countries or regions, such as loteraya americana (American loteraya), loteraya europea (European loteraya), loteraya asiática (Asian loteraya), and loteraya africana (African loteraya). Why is loteraya popular and important in Mexican culture?
Loteraya is more than just a game, it is also a cultural phenomenon that reflects the essence of Mexico. Loteraya is popular and important in Mexican culture for several reasons:
Loteraya as a form of art and expression
Loteraya is a form of art and expression that showcases the creativity and diversity of Mexican artists. The loteraya cards are not only beautiful and colorful, but also meaningful and symbolic. They depict the various aspects of Mexican culture, history, and folklore, as well as the values and beliefs of the Mexican people. The loteraya cards are also a source of inspiration for many artists who create their own versions of the game, using different themes and images to convey their messages and opinions. Loteraya is a way of celebrating and preserving the Mexican identity and heritage through art.
Loteraya as a tool for education and socialization
Loteraya is a tool for education and socialization that helps people learn and have fun at the same time. Loteraya is a game that can be played by anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It is a game that teaches people about the Mexican culture, history, and language, as well as basic skills such as counting, reading, and listening. Loteraya is also a game that fosters social interaction and communication among players. It is a game that brings people together, whether they are family, friends, or strangers. It is a game that encourages laughter, conversation, and camaraderie. Loteraya is a way of learning and sharing the Mexican spirit through play.
Loteraya as a source of pride and identity
Loteraya is a source of pride and identity that represents the uniqueness and richness of Mexico. Loteraya is a game that has been played for generations in Mexico and other parts of the world. It is a game that has survived and evolved through time, adapting to different contexts and circumstances. It is a game that has become a symbol of the Mexican culture, tradition, and identity. Loteraya is a way of honoring and expressing the Mexican essence through a game.
How can you play loteraya at home or online?
If you want to play loteraya at home or online, you will need some materials and rules to follow. Here are some tips on how to play loteraya at home or online:
The materials and rules for playing loteraya
To play loteraya at home, you will need:
A deck of 54 loteraya cards. You can buy them online or at some stores that sell Mexican products. You can also make your own cards by printing them from the internet or drawing them by hand.
At least one tabla for each player. You can buy them online or at some stores that sell Mexican products. You can also make your own tablas by printing them from the internet or drawing them by hand.
Some chips or markers for each player. You can use anything you have at home, such as beans, coins, buttons, or candy.
A card announcer who will pick the cards from the deck and announce them to the players.
A prize or reward for the winner. You can use money, candy, or anything else you agree on.
To play loteraya online, you will need:
A device with internet access, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
An online platform or app that allows you to play loteraya with other players or against the computer.
The rules for playing loteraya are simple and similar to bingo. The card announcer shuffles the deck and draws one card at a time, announcing it to the players by its name or using a verse or a riddle. The players check their tablas and mark the matching picture with a chip or a marker. The first player to complete a tabla or a pattern shouts "Lotería!" or "Buena!" and wins the prize. The game can continue until all the cards are drawn or until all the players win.
The tips and strategies for winning loteraya
Although loteraya is a game of chance, there are some tips and strategies that can help you increase your odds of winning. Here are some of them:
Choose your tabla wisely. Some tablas have more common or easy pictures than others. You can also choose a tabla that has pictures that you like or relate to.
Pay attention to the card announcer. Some card announcers use verses or riddles that can give you clues about the card name or picture. You can also try to guess the next card based on the previous ones.
Use multiple tablas. If you have more than one tabla, you have more chances of finding the matching picture. However, this also means that you have to pay more attention and mark faster.
Be alert and fast. You have to be quick and accurate when marking your tabla, as well as when shouting "Lotería!" or "Buena!". If you miss a card or hesitate, you might lose your chance of winning.
The best websites and apps for playing loteraya online
If you want to play loteraya online, there are many websites and apps that offer this option. You can play loteraya with other players from around the world, or against the computer. You can also choose different themes, levels, and modes of playing. Here are some of the best websites and apps for playing loteraya online:
Website/AppDescription
Loteria Workshop PlusA website that allows you to create your own loteraya cards and tablas, as well as play online with other players or against the computer. You can also print your cards and tablas for offline use.
Loteria Mexicana MultijugadorAn app that allows you to play loteraya online with other players in real time. You can also chat with other players, customize your avatar, and earn coins and rewards.
Loteria OriginalAn app that allows you to play loteraya online with the original Clemente Jacques cards and verses. You can also play offline with up to six players using one device.
Loteria ZingPlayAn app that allows you to play loteraya online with different themes, such as animals, fruits, superheroes, and celebrities. You can also join tournaments, win prizes, and invite your friends.
Conclusion
Loteraya is a fun and colorful Mexican game of chance that has been played for centuries. It is a game that combines art, education, and identity in a unique way. It is a game that reflects the diversity and richness of Mexico and its people. Loteraya is a game that anyone can enjoy and learn from, whether at home or online. Loteraya is more than just a game, it is a cultural treasure that deserves to be celebrated and shared.
FAQs
What is the difference between loteraya and bingo?
Loteraya and bingo are similar games of chance that use cards and boards with pictures or numbers. However, loteraya uses 54 cards with different images and names, while bingo uses 75 balls with numbers from 1 to 75. Loteraya also has more variations and patterns than bingo.
What are some of the most famous verses or riddles used in loteraya?
Some of the most famous verses or riddles used in loteraya are:
"El que nace pa' maceta no sale del corredor" (He who is born for a pot does not leave the corridor) for el nopal.
"No me extrañes corazón que regreso en el avión" (Do not miss me heart that I return on the plane) for el corazón.
"Verde blanco y colorado la bandera del soldado" (Green white and red the flag of the soldier) for la bandera.
"Al pasar por el cuartel vi a los soldados jugar este juego es de azar y se llama lotería" (As I passed by the barracks I saw the soldiers play this game is of chance and it is called loteraya) for el soldado.
"No te arrugues cuero viejo que te quiero pa' tambor" (Do not wrinkle old leather that I want you for a drum) for el tambor.
What are some of the benefits of playing loteraya?
Some of the benefits of playing loteraya are:
It improves your memory and concentration skills, as you have to remember and mark the pictures on your board.
It enhances your vocabulary and pronunciation skills, as you learn and say the names of the pictures in Spanish.
It stimulates your creativity and imagination, as you interpret and associate the pictures with their meanings and verses.
It promotes your cultural awareness and appreciation, as you discover and enjoy the Mexican culture, history, and folklore.
It boosts your mood and happiness, as you have fun and laugh with other players.
Where can I buy or download loteraya cards and tablas?
You can buy or download loteraya cards and tablas from various online sources, such as:
[Amazon], where you can find different versions and sets of loteraya cards and tablas, as well as books and accessories related to the game.
[Don Clemente Inc.], where you can find the original Clemente Jacques version of loteraya cards and tablas, as well as other products and information about the game.
[Loteria Workshop Plus], where you can create your own loteraya cards and tablas, as well as play online with other players or against the computer.
How can I learn more about loteraya and Mexican culture?
You can learn more about loteraya and Mexican culture by:
Reading books or articles about the game, such as [Lotería: A Novel] by Mario Alberto Zambrano, [Lotería Cards and Fortune Poems: A Book of Lives] by Juan Felipe Herrera, or [The History of Loteria] by Teresa Villegas.
Watching videos or documentaries about the game, such as [Loteria: A Documentary Film] by Miguel Veyrat, [Loteria: The Art of Chance] by Luis Valdez, or [Loteria: A Game of Chance] by PBS Learning Media.
Visiting museums or exhibitions about the game, such as [Lotería! México's Game of Chance and Poetry] at the Fowler Museum at UCLA, [Lotería! The Exhibition] at the Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin, or [Lotería! A Celebration of Mexican Culture] at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago.
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