“Clockwise” in gaming, whether in card or board games, refers to the direction of play that follows the natural flow of a clock. This means that players take their turns in a sequence that moves in a circular manner, usually from the starting player to the player on their left, and so on.

Here are some key points about playing in a clockwise direction:

1. Order of Play: In games played clockwise, each player takes their turn after the player to their right has completed theirs. This creates a predictable and organized sequence of play.
2. Consistency: Playing clockwise provides a standard direction that all players can easily understand and follow. This reduces confusion and ensures fairness.
3. Ease of Movement: Moving clockwise is a natural and intuitive direction for many people, making it a commonly used system in games worldwide.
4. Opposite of Counterclockwise: The opposite of playing clockwise is playing counterclockwise, which means turns progress in the opposite direction, or “against the clock.”
5. Importance of Direction in Strategy Games: In strategy games, the direction of play can have an impact on tactics and decision-making. For example, a player may have different options depending on whether they are going before or after a specific opponent.
6. Role of House Rules: Some games may allow players to choose the direction of play, while others have a fixed and defined order.

Remember, while playing clockwise is the standard in many games, there are exceptions, and some games may have specific rules regarding the direction of play. Always refer to the specific rules of the game you’re playing to ensure you’re following the correct sequence of turns.