5 Best Card Games for Beginners ()

If you’re brand new, the best first games are the ones with a clear goal, obvious legal moves, and short feedback loops. These picks are easy to start and still fun once you’ve learned the basics.

1. Classic Klondike (Turn 1)

Turn 1 is the friendliest version of classic Klondike. One card at a time means fewer decisions, fewer dead ends, and a smoother learning curve.

Great for learning the rules and recognizing build patterns.

2. Accordion Patience

Accordion has a simple, repeatable rule: match suit or rank one-left or three-left. It’s fast and teaches you to scan the board.

Perfect for short sessions and quick practice.

3. Agnes Bernauer

Agnes Bernauer is beginner-friendly because it gives you a reserve. That extra safety net helps you learn without getting stuck constantly.

The reserve makes it easier to recover from early mistakes.

4. Hearts

Hearts is a great first trick-taker: follow suit, avoid points, and gradually learn timing and counting without needing complex bidding.

Simple objective: avoid hearts and the Queen of Spades.

5. Classic Klondike (Turn 3)

Once Turn 1 feels comfortable, Turn 3 is the next step. You’ll learn planning, sequencing, and how to work with limited access to the stock.

The classic difficulty bump that teaches better prioritization.

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Want solo-only picks? Read best card games to play by yourself.