How to play Pinochle

Objective

Win the bid, make meld, and take enough counter cards to reach the contract.

Setup

1. 1

   Use two copies of A, 10, K, Q, J, and 9 in each suit.

2. 2

   Deal 12 cards to each player; partners sit opposite.

How play works

1. 1

   Bid points and name trump. The high bidder's side must satisfy the contract.

2. 2

   Display valid meld, then return cards to hand and play 12 tricks.

3. 3

   Follow suit and, under common rules, head the trick when able.

Scoring and winning

1. 1

   Add declared meld and trick counters. A, 10, and K commonly count 10 each, with a last-trick bonus.

2. 2

   If bidders fail, subtract the contract; defenders score what their rules permit.

Rules to settle before play

1. 1

   Double-deck and auction rules vary substantially.

2. 2

   Confirm minimum bid, passing cards, and trick obligations.