• Game Type: Trick-taking
• Age: 10+
• Players: 4
• The pack: 52-card deck

Whist is a classic trick-taking game played by four players in two partnerships. Its straightforward whist rules make it easy to learn, but mastering it requires skill and foresight. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the whist card game, from basic rules to advanced tactics. Let’s dive in.

The Pack

A standard deck of 52 cards is used, with no jokers. The cards are shuffled thoroughly before each deal. While variations like bid whist exist, traditional whist relies solely on the standard pack.

Rank of Cards

In whist, the ace is the highest card, followed by king, queen, and jack, and descending to the two. All suits are equal in value except the trump suit, which outranks the others. For example, a two of the trump suits beats an ace of any other suit.

The Deal

The dealer distributes 13 cards clockwise, one at a time, starting with the player on their left. The final card dealt to the dealer is placed face-up to determine the trump suit. This card remains visible until the dealer’s first turn, when it’s reclaimed and added to their hand.

The Trump Card

The face-up card dictates the trump suit for the round. This suit dominates all others, meaning even its lowest card can win a trick if no higher trump is played. If all trumps are exhausted, the highest card of the suit led takes the trick.

Objective of the Game

The goal is to win the most tricks. Each trick consists of four cards, one from each player. Partnerships work together to secure tricks, aiming to collect at least seven (six “book” tricks plus one). Every trick beyond six, called an odd trick, earns one point. The first team to reach five or seven points wins.

The Play

The player on the dealer’s left leads the first trick by playing any card. Others must follow suit if possible. If unable, they can play any card, including a trump. The highest card of the suit led wins unless a trump is played; then, the highest trump takes the trick. The winner leads the next trick.

Key Tips

• Track which suits have been played.
• Communicate subtly with your partner through card play.
• Prioritise saving high trumps for crucial tricks.

How to Keep Score?

Only odd tricks count towards the score. For example, winning eight tricks earns two points. The game typically ends at five points, although some players opt to play to seven. Keep a running tally and remember: precision matters. A single trick can shift the game’s outcome.

Wrapping Up

Unlike games that rely on complex bidding, Whist rewards observation and adaptability. Modern players can even enjoy the whist card game online, making it accessible worldwide. Variations like bid whist add layers of complexity, but traditional whist remains a favourite for its purity.

Ready to Test Your Skills?

Gather three friends, grab a deck, and let the tricks begin. Our Whisht playing cards combine elegance and durability, making them perfect for your next game night. Visit Art of Cards for curated collections that inspire play and connection.