Hand and Foot is a fast-paced, exciting card game that combines elements of Rummy and Canasta. It's a game best played with 2-6 players, although 4 is generally considered ideal. While the basic premise is relatively straightforward, mastering the strategy takes time and practice. This guide breaks down the rules, helping you learn to play and, eventually, dominate the game.
What You'll Need to Play Hand and Foot
- One or more standard 52-card decks: Typically, two decks are used, but more can be added for larger groups or to increase the game's length.
- Wild Cards: Jokers (from the decks used) or designated wild cards are used.
- Score Pad and Pencils: To keep track of each player's score.
The Goal of Hand and Foot
The goal of Hand and Foot is to be the first player to meld all your cards into sets and runs, and then go out by discarding your last card. Points are accumulated based on the value of the cards you meld and the speed with which you play.
Setting Up the Game
- Shuffle the decks: Thoroughly shuffle the deck(s) and deal 11 cards face down to each player.
- The Discard Pile: Place the remaining cards face down to form the stock pile. Turn the top card face up to begin the discard pile.
- The Wild Cards: Jokers, or designated cards (e.g., 2s) act as wild cards.
Gameplay: The Basics
Players take turns drawing cards and melding cards into sets (at least three cards of the same rank) or runs (at least three cards of the same suit in consecutive order).
Drawing Cards: Each turn begins by drawing either the top card from the stock pile or the top card from the discard pile. Once a card is drawn, the player must make a meld.
Melding: This is the core of Hand and Foot. You can meld by forming sets (three or more of a kind) or runs (three or more cards in sequence of the same suit). The more cards you meld, the faster you progress.
Going Out: To "go out," a player must meld all their cards. After melding all cards, the player must discard their last card.
Hand and Foot Melds: Melds are divided into "Hand" and "Foot." To create a Foot, you must have a minimum of 50 points melded in your Hand. Only then can you begin melding cards into your Foot.
What Cards Can Be Melded?
You can meld using any combination of sets and runs. Here's a breakdown:
- Sets: Three or more cards of the same rank (e.g., three Kings).
- Runs: Three or more cards of the same suit in consecutive order (e.g., 7, 8, 9 of Hearts).
- Wild Cards: Wild cards can be used to complete sets or runs.
Scoring
Scoring is cumulative throughout the game. Points are awarded for cards melded and additional bonuses are possible. This is a simplified score system, variations do exist:
- Aces: 1 point
- 2-10: Face value
- Jacks, Queens, Kings: 10 points each
###Scoring Bonuses:
- Going Out: 100 points (Bonus added if you "Go Out" before your Foot is filled)
- Bonus for Melding all cards before filling your foot: A significant bonus added to your final score.
- Clean: (Melding your hand without using any wild cards)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I draw from the discard pile and then immediately discard a card?
No, you must make a meld after drawing, whether from the stock or the discard pile.
What happens if I can't make a meld?
If you cannot make a meld after drawing a card, you must discard a card.
How many cards can I meld at once?
You can meld as many cards as you like, provided they form valid sets or runs.
What happens if I run out of cards in the stock pile?
Once the stock pile is depleted, the discard pile (excluding the top card) is reshuffled to form a new stock pile.
Can I add cards to existing melds?
Yes, you can add cards to existing melds as long as they meet the requirements for sets or runs.
Mastering Hand and Foot
The key to winning Hand and Foot is a blend of luck and strategy. Keep an eye on the cards being discarded, try to anticipate what your opponents might need, and be patient in waiting for the right cards to meld effectively. Practice makes perfect, so gather your friends and start playing! Remember to always clarify the specific rules with your playing group before starting, as house rules can vary.
