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Download on Google Play- 3-6 players, deal all cards evenly.
- Pass 3 cards to the left.
- 2 of Clubs leads first.
- Follow suit if possible.
- Highest card of led suit wins.
- No trumps.
- Hearts = 1 point each. Queen of Spades = 13.
- Shoot the moon = 0, others get 26.
Rules
Rickety Kate is the Australian version of Hearts, where the Queen of Spades (Rickety Kate) is the main penalty card. Players try to avoid taking her and all hearts in tricks.
Objective
Avoid capturing the Queen of Spades (Rickety Kate) and hearts. Lowest penalty score wins.
Setup
- Players: 3-6 players.
- Deck: Standard 52-card deck (adjusted for player count).
- Deal: Deal all cards evenly. Remove low cards to make even deals.
Gameplay
- Step 1: Each player passes 3 cards to the left before play begins.
- Step 2: The player with the 2 of Clubs leads the first trick.
- Step 3: Follow suit if possible. Highest card of led suit wins. No trumps.
- Step 4: Hearts cannot be led until one has been 'broken' (discarded on another trick).
Scoring
- Each heart = 1 penalty point.
- Queen of Spades (Rickety Kate) = 13 penalty points.
- Shooting the moon (taking all hearts + Kate) = 0 points, others get 26 each.
Variations
- No Passing: Skip the card-passing phase for simpler play.
- Bonus Card: The Jack of Diamonds is worth -10 (bonus) points.
Tips and Strategies
- Pass high spades and hearts to avoid being stuck with penalties.
- Void a suit early for discarding flexibility.
- Watch for players attempting to shoot the moon.
Tips & Strategy
Pass away dangerous spades and create voids. If someone is shooting the moon, stop them by taking a heart yourself.
Card passing is the most impactful decision. Getting rid of high spades protects you from Kate.
Trivia & Fun Facts
The name 'Rickety Kate' is uniquely Australian slang for the Queen of Spades.
What is the Queen of Spades called in the Australian version of Hearts?
History & Culture
Rickety Kate is the standard name for Hearts in Australia and New Zealand, where it has been a popular family game for generations.
Rickety Kate is one of Australia's most popular family card games, played at barbecues and family gatherings nationwide.
Variations & House Rules
No Passing simplifies the game. Adding the Jack of Diamonds as a bonus card rewards strategic capture.
Add the Jack of Diamonds bonus or remove passing for different skill levels.
