How to Play Nertz

Overview

Nertz (also known as Pounce, Racing Demon, or Squeal) is a fast-paced multiplayer card game that combines elements of Solitaire and Speed. Players race simultaneously using their own decks to play cards onto shared foundation piles in the center.

What You Need

• One standard 52-card deck per player (decks should have different backs to tell them apart).
• 2-4 players (the online version supports up to 4).
• A large playing surface so everyone can reach the shared foundations.

Setup

Each player sets up their own playing area:

1. Nertz Pile: Deal 13 cards face down. Flip the top card face up. This is your main goal pile.
2. Tableau: Deal 4 cards face up in a row. These are your working piles.
3. Stock: Hold the remaining cards face down as your draw pile.

Gameplay

There are NO turns. Everyone plays simultaneously as fast as they can.

1. Play to Foundations: Move cards onto the shared foundation piles in the center. Foundations are built in ascending order by suit (Ace through King). Anyone can play on any foundation.
2. Build Tableau: Arrange your 4 tableau piles in descending order with alternating colors (red on black, black on red).
3. Empty Tableau Spot: Fill with a card from your stock, your Nertz pile, or any tableau card.
4. Draw from Stock: When stuck, flip 3 cards from your stock at a time (only the top one is playable).
5. Call Nertz!: The first player to empty their 13-card Nertz pile yells "Nertz!" and the round ends immediately.

Scoring

• +1 point for each card you played onto foundation piles.
• -2 points for each card remaining in your Nertz pile.
• Many groups play to 100 points. The player with the highest score after reaching the target wins.

Strategy Tips

• Prioritize playing cards from your Nertz pile above all else.
• Don't wait for the perfect card — play to foundations as fast as possible.
• Keep an eye on opponents' Nertz piles to know when to push your pace.
• Build your tableau in a way that exposes cards that can be played to foundations.

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FAQ

What's the difference between Nertz and Solitaire?

Nertz combines Solitaire with Speed. Unlike solo Solitaire, Nertz is competitive multiplayer where up to 4 players race against each other on shared foundation piles.

Why is it also called Pounce?

Pounce is the most common alternative name for Nertz. The game has many regional names.

How do you win at Nertz?

The first player to empty their 13-card Nertz pile ends the round. Many groups play until someone reaches 100 points.