What is a Sergeant Major? How to Play & Rules: Step-by-Step Strategy

If you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced card game that’s perfect for gatherings or casual play, then Sergeant Major is a great choice. Also known as “3-5-8” or “Seven-Eight-Nine,” it’s a trick-taking game that combines teamwork, strategy, and a bit of luck to keep players on their toes.

The name “Sergeant Major” might sound military, and while it doesn’t require any drill sergeant skills, it does demand some quick thinking and good card sense. Whether you’re playing with family or friends, this game delivers excitement and competitive fun.

What You Need to Play

Players: Exactly 3 players

Deck: Standard 52-card deck, no jokers

The game revolves around winning tricks and scoring points based on your position. Each player has a target number of tricks to win, making the gameplay dynamic and strategic.

Objective of Sergeant Major

The goal is to win a set number of tricks each round. The three players are assigned different targets: 3, 5, and 8 tricks respectively. The player who gets 8 tricks is called the “Sergeant Major.” The game usually plays over multiple rounds, with players aiming to hit their targets or beat them.

Dealing and Setting Up

Shuffle the deck and deal out all 52 cards evenly—each player gets 17 cards, and the dealer keeps 1 extra card. The dealer discards one card to have 17 cards as well.

Before play begins, a trump suit is chosen by flipping the next card after dealing or by some agreed method.

Playing the Game

Sergeant Major is a trick-taking game, which means players play one card each per trick, and the highest card in the lead suit or highest trump wins the trick.

Here’s how a round typically plays out:

– The player to the dealer’s left leads the first trick by playing any card.

– Players must follow the suit led if possible.

– If they can’t follow suit, they may play a trump card or any other card.

– The highest card of the suit led wins the trick unless a trump is played, in which case the highest trump wins.

The winner of each trick leads the next trick.

Targets and Scoring

Each player’s target is set before the round starts:

– Player 1: 3 tricks

– Player 2: 5 tricks

– Player 3 (Sergeant Major): 8 tricks

At the end of the round, players count their tricks. If they meet or exceed their target, they score points equal to the number of tricks won minus their target. If they fail, they lose points equal to the difference.

For example, if the Sergeant Major wins 10 tricks, they score +2 points. If they only get 6 tricks, they score -2 points.

Strategy Tips for Beginners

1. Pay Attention to Trump Cards. Knowing which trump cards have been played helps you decide when to play your own trump or save it for critical moments.

2. Plan Your Leads. Leading with a strong suit can help you secure tricks or force opponents to use valuable cards.

3. Track Your Opponents’ Tricks. Keep count of how many tricks others have won so you can predict their moves and adjust yours.

4. Save High Cards for Critical Moments. Don’t waste your strongest cards too early. Use them to capture essential tricks or disrupt opponents’ plans.

Common Variations

Sergeant Major has a few regional twists, such as:

–Changing targets: Sometimes targets rotate each round so everyone gets a chance to be Sergeant Major.

–Partnership play: In some versions, two players team up against one, adding a cooperative element.

Why Play Sergeant Major?

This game is quick to learn but offers plenty of depth as you improve. It’s a perfect mix of luck and skill, ideal for three players who want a competitive yet friendly match.

Ready to give Sergeant Major a try? Shuffle your deck, grab two friends, and see if you can become the Sergeant Major by hitting your trick targets and outsmarting your opponents!