Who invented Spades?

By Neal Taparia - 4/15/2024


Have you ever wondered who invented Spades? The game of Spades was created by two college freshmen in Cincinnati, Ohio back in the late 1930s. Looking for things to do after homework, they invented the fast-paced card game–which is derived from other card games like Whist and Bridge.

Spades quickly became a beloved American pastime and has become a popular partnership card game in the United States, thriving both in person and online today. Fans of the card game can play unlimited online games at Spades.co for no charge, with options to play other people in multiplayer mode or to play against the computer!

World War II Influences

The popularity of Spades surged during World War II, with soldiers spreading the game across military bases and college campuses worldwide. While it originated in Cincinnati, the game quickly found a home as a downtime activity of troops, providing a brief reprieve from the hardships of wartime.

Spades appealed to many due its simplicity, portability, and the ease with which it can be played in short bursts. The game was ideal for soldiers looking to relax and bond with their comrades. It didn’t take long for Spades to be adopted across various branches of the armed forces.

Throughout its history, the game has been known for its ability to foster bonds among servicemen and provide some semblance of normalcy during difficult times.

Spades: Modern Times

Over time, Spades has evolved into one of America’s most played card games. Today, Spades thrives digitally and is the most popular partnership card game online.

Why is it so popular? It appeals to all ages and backgrounds because of its combination of strategy, teamwork, and competitiveness.

How to Play

Spades is a trick-taking card game, usually played by four people who each get thirteen cards. Who goes first in spades? The player to the dealer’s left goes first, and they have the opportunity to lead with any non-spade card of their choice.

As a player, you have the option to view your cards before you make a bid or to make a blind bid. Bidding means guessing how many tricks you think you’ll win during a round. You can also opt to make a nil bid. What does ‘nil’ mean in spades? ‘Nil’ is a zero bid, meaning you think you won’t win any tricks during the round.

Like the name of the game, the suit of spades is especially significant as it outranks other suits. Once a player leads with a card, the other players must follow suit if they can. If a player cannot follow suit, they may play any card they wish, including a spade. The player who wins the trick leads in the next round.

When a player or team hits 500 points, they’ve won the game.

Play Online at Spades.co

Playing on Spades.co is an excellent way for seasoned players or beginners to pass the time. With unlimited free games, players can hone their skills while boosting their brain power and memory!