INTRODUCTION

The game of hearts is an ancient game that dates back to the Greek city of Ephesus located on what is now the Turkish coast of the Aegean Sea.  It was originally called "Leona" for Helen of Troy's sister who was as ugly as Helen was beautiful.  To attract Leona's notice (the taking of hearts) was considered bad for a Greek's health, and to win her hand (the queen of spades) was considered lethal.  One of Aristophanes' later comedies maintained that Leona's face could sink a thousand ships.

HOW A COMPUTER PLAYS HEARTS

In much the same way that Santa's reindeer are able to fly, the "chip" inside your computer is able to think.  The computer doesn't play like you do, but rather as you think you do.  It is a rule-based "Expert System" that uses human advice to make its own choices.  It develops general rules based on specific examples, i.e., leading high hearts when not Shooting the Moon is bad policy.  

These rules allow your computer to look at any trick, in the context of the whole game, and decide which card to play.  This choice does not always turn out for the best.  Most choices are gambles and sometimes the computer gambles poorly.  The evaluation of these possibilities is how the different playing styles, discussed below, are achieved in Hearts Deluxe. A careful reading of the strategy guide will tell you much about how Hearts Deluxe plays hearts.

"You have a world model and you consider alternatives.  If this thing could talk, it could describe this internal process, and it could tell you, 'Yeah..I considered going around there, but it didn't seem like a good idea because...'" 
                                       Hans Moravec

The telepathy option (under the Show Me menu) is an attempt to get "this thing to talk."  I hope you find it interesting.

YOUR OPPONENTS

(READ THIS ONLY IF YOU DON'T LIKE MYSTERIES.)

Jen is the most balanced player.  She will attempt to Shoot the Moon more frequently than Rob or Zak, and will be more willing to take a heart in pursuit of the jack of diamonds or other goals.   She learned to take risks during her years of service in the N.Y.P.D.  Currently, Jen is the spokesperson for Freeverse Software.

Jet Li is the most conservative.  Don't expect him to Shoot the Moon too often, and when he does, be very afraid.  Jet, after many years of studying various philosophical and physical arts, has decided that he'd much rather play Hearts. 

Hal is the most aggressive player.  An enthusiastic participant, he is there to play, as well as to win.  He learned this positive attitude during his party hardy fraternity days.  His only wish is that they make Hearts into a drinking game.

Depending on your own style, any one of your opponents could be the "best."