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How To

How to Play Pinochle Online

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(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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