1.3 Basic Objective of the Game

The primary goal in Hand and Foot is to be the first player to completely discard all your cards, starting with the hand and then the foot. Players achieve this by forming valid melds, such as groups of seven cards of the same rank or runs of sequential cards. The game emphasizes strategic planning and efficient use of cards to outpace opponents in eliminating both sets of cards, ensuring a swift victory.

Number of Players and Team Setup

Hand and Foot is typically played with 4 players in two teams but can accommodate up to 6 players using one deck per player.

2.1 Typical Number of Players

Hand and Foot is typically played with 4 players, divided into two teams, but it can accommodate up to 6 players. The game is flexible, allowing for various player configurations. Teams are standard, but individual play is possible. With 4 players, two decks are used, while 6 players require three decks. This adaptability makes the game accessible to different group sizes while maintaining its core gameplay.

2.2 Team Play Options

Hand and Foot is typically played with teams, most commonly 2 teams of 2 players each. Teams work together to meld cards and achieve the game’s objectives. Points are shared among team members, fostering collaboration. While team play is standard, the game can be adapted for individual play or larger groups, with teams of 3 players each when 6 players participate. This flexibility allows the game to suit various social settings.

Dealing the Cards

Hand and Foot uses five to six decks with Jokers. Each player receives two sets of 11 cards: one for the hand and one for the foot. The dealer, often determined by a high card draw, distributes these cards. Variations exist, such as dealing 15 cards for the hand and 13 for the foot. The exact process may vary based on house rules or modifications.

3.1 Number of Decks and Jokers

Hand and Foot is played using five to six decks of standard playing cards, including jokers. The number of decks ensures a sufficient card supply for multiple players and rounds. Jokers are typically included as wildcards, enhancing gameplay flexibility. The exact number of decks can vary slightly depending on house rules or the number of players, but five to six decks remain the standard for most variations of the game.

3.2 Distribution of Hand and Foot

Each player receives two sets of 11 cards: the hand and the foot. The hand is played first, followed by the foot after all hand cards are discarded. The dealer distributes the cards into these two distinct piles, ensuring each player has equal access to both sets. This structured dealing process is crucial for maintaining game balance and ensuring a fair start for all participants in each round of play.

Objective of the Game

The goal is to be the first to discard all cards by playing the hand first, then the foot, forming valid melds and strategically managing card sets.

4.1 Getting Rid of Cards

In Hand and Foot, the primary objective is to discard all cards by forming valid melds. Players must play the hand first, using all its cards, before accessing the foot. Melds must consist of three to seven cards of the same rank or sequences of at least three cards. Proper sequencing and grouping are crucial, as illegal moves result in penalties. Strategy and planning are essential to efficiently manage and discard cards.

4.2 Playing Hand First, Then Foot

In Hand and Foot, players must discard all cards in their hand before accessing the foot pile. The hand is played first, requiring all its cards to be melded or discarded legally. Once the hand is fully played, the foot pile becomes active, allowing players to use those cards to continue melding and discarding. This sequential play adds complexity and strategy to the game, as proper management of both piles is essential for success.

Melding Rules

Valid melds are groups of three to seven cards of the same rank or sequences of five or more cards in sequential order. Red and black Canastas require seven cards of the same rank, with red Canastas using all red cards and black Canastas all black cards. Jokers and wild cards can substitute for missing cards in melds.

5.1 Valid Melds and Groupings

A valid meld consists of three to seven cards of the same rank or five or more sequential cards of the same suit. Groups of three to seven cards of the same rank are called “groups,” while sequential cards are called “runs.” Jokers and wild cards can substitute for missing cards in a meld, allowing players to complete their sets. Melds must contain at least two natural cards to be valid, ensuring strategic card management.

5.2 Red and Black Canastas

A red canasta is made with seven red cards of the same rank, while a black canasta uses seven black cards of the same rank. Both types are valid melds and score bonus points. Wild cards, such as jokers, can be used to complete canastas, but at least two natural cards are required. Red and black canastas are strategic goals, offering higher points for successful completion.

Managing the Hand and Foot Piles

Players start with two sets of 11 cards: the hand (played first) and the foot (played after the hand is exhausted). Proper management ensures smooth transitions and strategic play.

6.1 Playing the Hand

Playing the hand begins with each player picking up 22 cards, ensuring they have the correct number. The hand is played first, and players take turns drawing cards to form valid melds. Jokers and twos act as wild cards, aiding in creating groups or sequences. The player to the left of the dealer starts, and play continues clockwise. Players must meld or discard, aiming to empty their hand before transitioning to the foot pile;

6.2 Transitioning to the Foot

Transitioning to the foot occurs after all cards in the hand are played. Players must complete their hand before accessing the foot pile. The foot is treated as a separate set of cards, and players can only use it once the hand is fully discarded. Managing both piles strategically is crucial, as the foot provides additional opportunities to meld and score points, but also adds complexity to the game.

Scoring and Winning the Game

Scoring in Hand and Foot involves points for valid melds, with bonuses for going out first and penalties for unused cards. The first to discard all cards wins.

7.1 Points for Melds

Points are awarded for valid melds, with red Canastas (natural, same-rank cards) worth more than black Canastas (mixed with wild cards). Each red Canasta earns 500 points, while black Canastas score 300 points. Jokers and wild cards add 20 and 15 points, respectively. Melds are scored based on the cards used, with bonuses for completing books or going out first. Strategic melding maximizes points and enhances gameplay.

7.2 Bonus Points and Penalties

Bonus points are awarded for clean books (no wild cards) and penalties for leftover cards. A 100-point bonus is given for going out first. Dirty books incur a 200-point penalty if a team fails to make a clean book. Penalties also apply for cards left in hand or foot at round’s end. Strategic planning is key to minimizing penalties and maximizing bonus points, enhancing overall gameplay and scoring potential effectively.