Here's why:
* Simplicity: Spades has relatively easy rules, making it accessible to a wide range of players with varying levels of card game experience.
* Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, Spades offers room for strategy and skillful play, which keeps it engaging for experienced players.
* Social Aspect: Spades is typically played with partners, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.
* Widely Available: Cards are generally accessible in prisons, making Spades readily available to play.
However, other popular card games in prison include:
* Poker: A classic card game with a high degree of skill and strategy, drawing a large following in prisons.
* Hearts: A trick-taking game that's simple to learn but requires strategic thinking.
* Rummy: A popular card game focused on building sets and runs, offering both skill and luck.
Ultimately, the most popular card game in any specific prison will depend on factors like the local culture, available resources, and personal preferences of the inmates.