The Timeless Classic: Understanding the Free Hearts Card Game

In the world of card games, few are as beloved and enduring as Hearts. With its rich history dating back to 18th century Spain, this trick-taking game has captivated players for centuries. Also known as Reversis, Hearts is a classic that requires strategy, skill, and a dash of luck.

The Objective

In Hearts, the objective is simple yet challenging: have the fewest points when someone reaches 100 points. Sounds easy enough, right? But don't be fooled – this game is all about avoiding tricks with hearts and the Queen of Spades.

Scoring

Each heart is worth one point, while the Queen of Spades is worth a whopping 13 points. Players must carefully manage their cards to minimize their score. If you're lucky enough to 'Shoot the Moon' by winning all the hearts and the Queen of Spades, you'll receive no points, while all other players will be saddled with 26 points each.

Gameplay

To begin, a dealer is selected, usually by drawing the lowest card from the deck. Each player receives 13 cards clockwise, and the game starts with the player who drew the 2 of Clubs (the first lead). Players must follow suit and try to outrank the cards in play. If you don't have any clubs to match the initial lead, you can play any card – but be warned: the lead suit trumps others.

Variations

Hearts has many variations, each with its own unique twists and challenges. For more information on these variations, check out Pagat's comprehensive article on the game.

Online Version

Want to try your hand at Hearts without having to gather friends or find a physical deck? You can play a free online version of Hearts here.

Hearts is a timeless classic that continues to delight players around the world. With its simple yet strategic gameplay, it's no wonder this game has stood the test of time. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, Hearts is a great way to spend an afternoon with friends and family. So why not give it a try? You might just find yourself hooked.

Free hearts card game