Hearts

Hearts

Card Game
Players
3-7
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
4 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
30 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
8+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
1.7 / 5
Year
1850

About the game

Hearts is a classic trick-taking card game for 3 to 7 players that has entertained generations. Players try to avoid capturing hearts and the dreaded queen of spades, each worth penalty points, while chasing the risky 'shoot the moon' strategy to flip the score entirely. With simple rules and deep tactical play, it's endlessly replayable with a standard deck of cards. A timeless choice for casual card nights of any size.

Hobbli's Notes

Hearts is a genuine classic for good reason: it's easy to teach, plays with a wide range of group sizes, and still has real bite thanks to the shoot-the-moon gamble. We keep coming back to it as a reliable filler that never feels stale, especially with a mixed group of card game fans and newcomers.

What we like

  • Easy to learn with just a standard deck of cards.
  • Scales well from 3 to 7 players.
  • The shoot-the-moon mechanic adds thrilling risk-reward tension.
  • Endlessly replayable classic with real strategic depth.

Keep in mind

  • Can involve some player elimination-like frustration when badly stuck with hearts.
  • Luck of the deal can swing individual hands.

Who it's for

Great for ages 8 and up, from casual family card nights to sharper competitive groups of 3-7 players; needs no special equipment beyond a deck of cards.

Mechanics

Score-and-Reset GameTake ThatTrick-takingTurn Order

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