The phrase "it's cards" can be replaced with various synonyms depending on the context. In a game, it could be referred to as "the deck," "the pack," or "the hand." If discussing a situation, we might say "the situation," "the deal," or "the circumstance." A more colloquial way to express the same sentiment might be "that's how the cookie crumbles," "that's life," or "that's just the way things go." In any case, the expression conveys a sense of resignation or acceptance of the situation at hand, whether it be a game, a circumstance, or simply the way things are.