Who leads the first trick in Hearts?
In many modern Hearts rulesets, the player holding the 2 of Clubs (2♣) must lead it to start the first trick. You can see this rule in action when you Play Hearts Online.
First trick rules (table)
| Rule | Typical implementation |
|---|---|
| Lead card | 2♣ leads the very first trick |
| Following suit | Players must follow Clubs if they can |
| Penalty cards on trick 1 | Often restricted unless you have no safe cards |
Why 2♣ leads?
It standardizes the opening and reduces arguments about who starts. It also forces an early Clubs trick, which is usually low-risk before hearts are broken.
What about penalty cards on trick 1?
Many rulesets restrict Hearts and sometimes the Queen of Spades on the first trick unless a player has no alternative. These restrictions make the opening less swingy.
| Card type | Common restriction |
|---|---|
| Hearts (♥) | Often not allowed on trick 1 unless you can’t follow suit. |
| Queen of Spades (Q♠) | Sometimes restricted on trick 1; variant-dependent. |
These rules connect to the concept of breaking hearts.
Related Hearts FAQ pages
Need a quick definition? See the Hearts glossary.
- How long does a Hearts game take?
- Is Hearts skill or luck?
- Can you play Hearts with 2 or 3 players?
- Breaking hearts: when hearts can be led
- Scoring rules and penalty cards
- Queen of Spades value
- Passing directions cycle
- Shooting the moon rule
- Win rate and percentages
- Is Hearts free?
- Play without downloading
- How many cards are in Hearts?
Back to the main page: Play Hearts Online.