One table, two teams, thirteen tricks
Spades is a four-player trick-taking game played by two partnerships. You sit opposite your partner, receive thirteen cards, and bid how many tricks you expect to win. Your two bids become one team contract, so every decision affects both players.
The goal is not simply to collect the most tricks. You need to win enough to make the contract without gathering too many overtricks, known as bags. That balance gives every hand a clear objective and makes even a low card useful when played at the right time.