Passing Cards in Hearts
Passing Cards
Before play begins, each player selects 3 cards to pass to another player. The passing direction rotates: Left, Right, Across, then no pass (Hold). This cycle repeats throughout the game.
Passing Rotation
- Hand 1: Pass Left
- Hand 2: Pass Right
- Hand 3: Pass Across
- Hand 4: Hold (no passing)
- Hand 5: Cycle repeats (Left)
What to Pass
Usually Pass:
- Queen of Spades - 13 points of danger
- High spades (A♠, K♠) - Can capture Q♠
- High hearts - Will win unwanted tricks
- Cards that don't help create a void
Usually Keep:
- Low cards (2-6) - Safe plays
- Long suits - Maintain control
- Cards that create a void
Voiding Strategy
If you have only 2 diamonds, pass both to create a diamond void. Now when diamonds are led, you can dump hearts or the Queen of Spades.
Direction Matters
- Pass Left: That player leads after you - give them trouble
- Pass Right: They play before you - safer to pass high cards
- Pass Across: Farthest player - strategic based on scores
Advanced Passing
Consider the game state:
- If an opponent is close to 100 points, target them with dangerous cards
- If you might shoot the moon, keep your high hearts
- On "hold" hands, you're stuck with what you're dealt - adjust strategy