Originating from an old European game named Reverse (or Reversis) played between the 16th and 19th centuries, Hearts transformed from a system where players tried to avoid certain high-value cards, like the Jack of hearts and the four aces. By the mid-1800s, the simplified version of Hearts emerged, becoming a beloved game in the US, second only to Euchre and Whist. Post-Civil War, Mississippi riverboats echoed with rounds of hearts. However, the early 1900s saw Bridge’s rise, pushing Hearts, Euchre, and Whist into the background.
Card enthusiasts Albert H. Morehead and Geoffrey Matt-Smith commented on Hearts’ appeal in Culbertson’s Hoyle, noting its simple rules but intricate strategies. Over the past five decades, its appeal grew with the introduction of elements like the high-penalty queen of spades and the “shooting the moon” option.
As the game evolved, new twists like card passing, mandatory leading with the deuce of clubs, and the Jack of Diamonds variant came into play. Today, thanks to online platforms and a renewed appreciation for traditional games, Hearts is enjoying a resurgence and is popular among young and old.
Understanding the Game
Hearts are straightforward to pick up. While there are three-handed, five-handed, and partnership versions, the ideal game involves four individual players (“cutthroat”). Players use a standard 52-card deck, ranking cards from ace (highest) to deuce. Without trumps or jokers, players get 13 cards each and pass three unwanted cards in a set rotation.
This pass lets players enhance their hand composition. One must finish passing before checking the incoming cards. Some iterations include a no-pass hand every fourth deal. The player with the deuce of clubs begins, and play continues clockwise. Players must stick to the suit unless they don’t have it.
It’s generally prohibited to discard the spade queen or a heart on the first trick. Hearts can’t be the leading suit until one has been discarded or is the only suit left to a player. Familiarizing oneself with local variations is advised before starting.
Game’s Objective
Like golf, the aim in Hearts card game is minimal scoring. Players evade tricks with paint cards: 13 hearts (1 point each) and the queen of spades (13 points). A round concludes when a player reaches 100 points, with the player with the fewest points declared the winner. Beginners often adopt a basic approach, but as one advances, strategic gameplay becomes crucial.
“Shooting the Moon,” where one captures all hearts and the spade queen, either subtracts 26 points from the player’s score or adds 26 to opponents. Often, players overlook the importance of middle or low hearts, leading to many moons. An Omnibus Hearts variation awards the jack of diamonds holder -10 points.
In essence, hearts challenges memory and strategic prowess.
