Hearts: The Card Game Where You Avoid the Queen

Hearts stands out in the card game world with its unusual objective: avoid taking tricks with point cards, particularly the dreaded Queen of Spades. This “penalty” card game has entertained players for over a century, gaining renewed popularity when Microsoft included it in their Windows Entertainment Pack.

A Brief History

Hearts originated in the United States in the late 19th century, evolving from earlier European trick-taking games. Its popularity soared in the digital age, especially after being bundled with Windows, making it a staple of office and home computers worldwide.

The Art of Avoidance

Unlike most card games where the goal is to win tricks or collect points, Hearts flips the script:

• Hearts cards are worth 1 penalty point each
• The Queen of Spades is worth a whopping 13 penalty points
• The goal is to finish with the fewest points
• In some variations, “shooting the moon” (taking all penalty cards) gives 26 points to everyone else

This reversed objective creates a fascinating tension where players must carefully manage when to take control and when to strategically lose tricks.

Basic Strategies

• Pass Wisely: At the start of each round, pass your highest hearts and the Queen of Spades if possible. Try to void a suit to gain control over which tricks you take.
• Track Played Cards: Pay attention to which suits have been played and which high cards remain.
• Avoid Leading with Hearts: Unless hearts have been “broken” (played in a previous trick), avoid leading with them.
• Beware the Queen: Watch for opportunities when the Queen of Spades might be played, and avoid taking tricks that could contain her.
• Shooting the Moon: If you have a strong hand, consider collecting all penalty cards for a big score swing.

Tips for New Players

• Don’t be afraid to sacrifice a few points to avoid a big penalty.
• Practice makes perfect—Hearts rewards careful observation and memory.
• Play with friends or online to experience different strategies and play styles.

Hearts is easy to learn but offers endless depth for those who love strategy and competition. Try your hand at Hearts on Win95.fun and see if you can avoid the Queen!