Can you take fewer than 3 gems in Splendor?
Yes, when the supply can't give you 3 different colors: then you may take two different gems, or a single one. The rules only describe taking fewer in that situation. Taking fewer by choice isn't covered, so agree on it as a group.
The rule:
Yes, in Splendor you may take two different gems or just one when the supply can’t offer 3 different colors. The rules only cover taking fewer in that case, so taking fewer by choice is something your group should agree on.
On your turn you must do exactly 1 action. Taking gems of different colors works like this:
- Normally: take 3 gems, each a different color.
- Supply running low: if 3 different colors aren’t available, you may take two different gems, or a single one.
- Never gold: gold can’t be taken with this action.
If you’d go over 10 pieces, you can still take them. You just hand back the extras at the end of your turn.
Example:
Late in the game only rubies and onyx are left in the supply, apart from gold. Kai takes 1 ruby and 1 onyx, because there's no third color to take.
Why players argue about it:
Some groups think you must always take exactly 3. Others take 2 different colors whenever they like. The rules only give permission to take fewer when 3 different colors aren't available.