Hearts Card Game Instructions

The popular card game Hearts is a trick-taking game that requires strategy and attention to detail. With four players and a standard deck of 52 cards, the objective is to win by collecting the fewest point cards. In this article, we will explore the rules and instructions for playing Hearts.

Rule 1: No Point Cards on the First Trick

In the beginning, each player must 'follow suit' on the first trick by playing a club card. This means that no point cards can be played until hearts are broken, which is discussed in a later section. The person who takes the trick leads the next trick by placing any card from their hand, except a point card, in the middle.

For example, if the cards were played like this: 2 , A , 10 , 5 , then the person who played the Ace will take the trick because the Ace is the highest-ranking card. The person who played the highest-ranking card of the suit that was led (clubs, in this case) takes the four cards.

Following Suit

If a player does not have a club card, they can play any card except for a point card. They cannot play a hearts card or the Queen of Spades. The person to their left must 'follow suit' by playing any one of their club cards.

Starting the Game

The game starts with the 2 of clubs being placed face-up in the middle of the four players. Each player is then dealt a random set of 13 cards from the shuffled deck. The Queen of Spades is worth 13 points, making it a card to avoid collecting at all costs.

Objective

The goal of the game is to win by collecting the fewest point cards. Point cards include the 2-10 of each suit, Jacks, Queens, Kings, and Aces. Hearts are also considered point cards.

By following these rules and instructions, you can start playing Hearts with your friends or family today. With practice and strategy, you will become a master of this popular card game.

Remember to always 'follow suit' on the first trick, avoid leading with point cards until hearts are broken, and keep an eye out for the Queen of Spades. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to winning Hearts.

Hearts card game instructions