Hartenjagen

Hartenjagen is a trick-taking card game played with a standard 52-card deck. The primary objective is to avoid collecting cards from the hearts suit, as well as the Queen of Spades. These penalty cards are worth points at the end of the game. The game is typically played by four players, though variations exist for different numbers.

The game begins with each player being dealt 13 cards. The player holding the 2 of Clubs traditionally starts the first trick. Players must follow suit if possible. If a player cannot follow suit, they may play any card. After all players have played a card, the trick is won by the player who played the highest card of the suit that was led. The winner of the trick then leads the next trick.

The game continues until all 13 tricks have been played. At this point, players tally their scores based on the penalty cards they have collected. Each heart card is worth 1 point, and the Queen of Spades is worth 13 points. The game is typically played over several rounds, with the first player to reach a predetermined score (often 100 points) losing the game. The player with the lowest score at that point is declared the winner.

Hartenjagen is known for its strategic depth, requiring players to carefully manage their hands, anticipate opponents' moves, and decide when to take tricks and when to shed penalty cards. It is a popular game in many parts of the world, particularly in Europe.