The number of points you need to lay down in Hand and Foot varies depending on the current round of play. To initiate your first meld, players must achieve a specific minimum point total with the cards they lay down from their hand.
In Hand and Foot, "laying down" refers to the act of placing sets of cards (melds) on the table. A meld typically consists of three or more cards of the same rank. Your initial meld, often called the "opening meld," requires a minimum point value to be valid. This requirement increases with each subsequent round, adding a strategic challenge as the game progresses.
Minimum Points Required by Round
The minimum point thresholds are crucial for players planning their turns and managing their hands. Failing to meet the required points means a player cannot lay down any cards, even if they have valid melds, until the condition is met.
Here is a breakdown of the points required for the initial meld in each round:
| Round | Minimum Points to Lay Down (Initial Meld) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 50 points |
| 2 | 90 points |
| 3 | 120 points |
| 4 | 150 points |
This escalating requirement ensures that players must strategically collect higher-value cards or more extensive melds as the game advances, making each round progressively more challenging. Understanding these point requirements is fundamental to mastering the game of Hand and Foot. For more details on game rules and strategies, you can consult resources like The Mahjong Line's guide on how to play Hand and Foot.
