Whist is a classic trick-taking card game that has been enjoyed by players for centuries. It is played with a standard 52-card deck and can be played with two, three, or four players. In this game, players compete to win the most tricks in a hand and ultimately score the most points to win the game.

To begin, the deck is shuffled and each player is dealt 13 cards. The remaining four cards are placed face down in the center to serve as the “kitty.” The top card of the kitty is then turned face up, and this suit becomes the trump suit for that hand.

The player sitting to the left of the dealer starts the game by leading any card from their hand. The other players must follow suit if possible, meaning they must play a card of the same suit if they have one. If they do not have a card of the leading suit, they can play a card from the trump suit or any other suit. The highest card played in the leading suit or the highest trump card wins the trick. The winner of the trick then leads the next round.

The game continues in this manner until all 13 tricks have been played. Each player counts the number of tricks they have won, and this number becomes their score for that hand.

At the end of the hand, the top card of the kitty is turned face up, and this suit becomes the trump suit for the next hand. The player to the left of the previous dealer becomes the new dealer, and the game continues with a new hand.

Points are then tallied at the end of each hand. If a player wins all 13 tricks, they score 26 points. If a player wins seven or more tricks, they score one point for each trick won. Any additional tricks won by a player over seven also count as one point. For example, if a player wins nine tricks, they would score three points (one point for the first seven tricks, and two additional points for the extra tricks). If a player is able to win all 13 tricks in a hand, they automatically win the game.

There are also bonus points that can be earned throughout the game. If the dealer turns up the ace of trumps from the kitty, they score one point. If the dealer does not turn up the ace but still manages to win the most tricks in that hand, they score two points.

The game is typically played until one player or team reaches 10 points (or any predetermined number). This player or team is declared the winner.

In summary, Whist is a simple but strategic card game that is perfect for players of all ages. With a little bit of luck and the right strategy, players can outsmart their opponents and win the game. So gather your friends and family, grab a deck of cards, and prepare to have a fun and engaging time playing Whist.