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Download on Google Play- 4 players, 32 cards, deal 8 each.
- Only Queen of Clubs and 7 of Diamonds are trump.
- Their holders form a team.
- Follow suit if possible.
- Trumps beat all other cards.
- Highest card wins the trick.
- A=11, 10=10, K=4, Q=3, J=2.
- Trump team needs 61+ points.
Rules
Spitzer is a German trick-taking game played with 32 cards where only certain cards are permanent trumps. The Queen of Clubs and 7 of Diamonds are always trump, regardless of suit.
Objective
Capture tricks containing valuable cards. The player or team with the most card points wins the round.
Setup
- Players: 4 players.
- Deck: 32 cards (7 through Ace of each suit).
- Deal: Deal 8 cards to each player.
Gameplay
- Step 1: The only permanent trumps are the Queen of Clubs (highest) and the 7 of Diamonds (second highest). All other cards belong to their natural suits.
- Step 2: The player to the dealer's left leads. Players must follow suit if possible.
- Step 3: The highest trump or highest card of the led suit wins.
- Step 4: The holder of the Queen of Clubs and 7 of Diamonds may play on the same team or opposing teams, depending on who holds them.
Scoring
- Aces = 11, 10s = 10, Kings = 4, Queens = 3, Jacks = 2.
- The team holding the Queen of Clubs and 7 of Diamonds (Spitzer team) must score at least 61 of 120 points.
Variations
- Solo Spitzer: One player plays alone against three.
- Double Spitzer: Both key trumps in one hand, playing solo.
Tips and Strategies
- Track who holds the two permanent trumps, as this determines teams.
- Lead with strong suit cards to force out the trumps.
- The Queen of Clubs is the most powerful card in the game.
Tips & Strategy
Identify who holds the two permanent trumps to figure out the teams. The Queen of Clubs is the ultimate power card.
Since teams are determined by trump holdings, reading the play to identify your partner is crucial.
Trivia & Fun Facts
With only two trumps, the team-formation mechanic is unknown until these cards are played, creating suspense.
What are the two permanent trump cards in Spitzer?
History & Culture
Spitzer is popular in German-American communities, especially in Wisconsin and Minnesota, reflecting German immigration patterns.
Spitzer is a cherished tradition in German-American communities of the upper Midwest.
Variations & House Rules
Solo Spitzer lets one player with both trumps play alone. Double Spitzer is the ultimate solo challenge.
Add more permanent trumps to change the team dynamics.
