How To

How to Play Pinochle Online

By eHow Internet Editor
Rate: (5 Ratings)

Given the immense worldwide popularity of Pinochle, many online forums exist in which players can enjoy the game. Once you hone your Pinochle skills to a high level, you can even play in leagues, tournaments and competitions which, in some cases, offer winners valuable prizes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Knowledge of Pinochle game play
  1. Step 1

    Log on to a Pinochle site. Power Players Pinochle Online offers a list of hosts for pinochle games, most of which have been reviewed (see Resources below). Spend some time browsing the various options.

  2. Step 2

    Choose a site commensurate with your experience level, or the one that works best with your computer's Internet connection speed or memory capabilities.

  3. Step 3

    Download any software required in order to play Pinochle online using your chosen site's network. Make sure to enable your virus-scanning software to screen for any potential dangers.

  4. Step 4

    Spend some time getting to know your chosen site's user interface. Learn how to enter bids, call trump, choose melding combinations and lead or play tricks before joining a game. Many sites will impose time limits on players' turns. You don't want to use valuable time trying to figure out how to execute a certain play that you would be better off spending calculating your game strategy.

  5. Step 5

    Lurk for a while before joining a game. Get used to the speed at which the game is played and how play progresses during a game. Many of the larger online Pinochle sites offer games played at varying speeds and skill levels. Go with the one that best matches your current abilities.

  6. Step 6

    Choose your partner based on direct observation of their game play whenever possible, or partner up with someone you know and play online at the same time to form a team. Winning four-player online Pinochle depends as much on your partner's skill level as your own. You are likely to experience better success with a partner you're comfortable with, and who knows your tendencies well.

  7. Step 7

    Have fun! Many online Pinochle sites have chat forums or networks where you can interact with other users. Expand your social circle as you improve your Pinochle play.

Tips & Warnings
  • Get plenty of practice before joining any type of competitive Pinochle league. It is an intricate, intensive game which requires study to master.
  • Do not pay any fees to play casual, non-competitive online Pinochle. While many of the more competitive tournament sites charge users an entry fee, there are plenty of places to engage in informal play free of charge.

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