Whist
Whist at your next game night?
Add Whist to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer (Uncredited)
- Publisher ASS Altenburger Spielkarten , Brimtoy , Counter Clockwise , Dennis's , Dondorf
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In Whist, players form fixed partnerships and use a standard deck to win more tricks than their opponents. The lead player chooses a suit, and others must follow if possible. The goal is to win more than six tricks to score points. Variants include predetermined trump suits and bonus points for holding certain cards, adding variety to the basic game.
Who Is This Game For?
Whist suits players aged 12 and up who enjoy classic card games with strategic depth. It is a family-level game with moderate complexity and typically lasts about 60 minutes. Prior experience with trick-taking games helps but is not required.
How It Works
Whist uses Trick-taking and Team-Based Game mechanics. One player leads a suit, others must follow if able. Trump cards can win tricks. Teams score points by winning tricks over six. Most games play to five points, with optional variants for trump selection and scoring.
What Makes It Special
Whist, with no credited designer, originated in the 17th century and is a precursor to Bridge. Its simple trick-taking and team mechanics influenced many later card games. Whist is a traditional card game also available digitally on platforms like Board Game Arena.
Pro
- Historically significant classic card game
- Simple rules with strategic depth
- Team-based gameplay encourages cooperation
- Various variants provide replayability
Contra
- No official credited designer
- Approximate 60-minute playtime might be long for casual players
- Requires basic knowledge of trick-taking games
Setting & atmosphere
Whist is played with a French deck rooted in 17th to 19th century English card-playing traditions and historical settings.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on mastering the basic trick-taking and following suit rules before exploring variants.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Whist is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Games typically last around 60 minutes, depending on player count and variants.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic understanding of trick-taking mechanics helps, as following suit is essential.
How does this compare to similar games?
Whist is a historical predecessor to Bridge, featuring fixed partnerships and no bidding in its basic form.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 12 and moderate complexity, Whist fits families with some gaming experience.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of Trick-taking and Team-Based Game mechanics defines Whist's gameplay.
Fazit
Whist is recommended for fans of classic trick-taking games seeking a historically significant card game with strategic elements. Ideal for those who prefer simple rules with tactical play.
Whist at your next game night?
Add Whist to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Whist to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
