Solitaire - The Classic Card Game

Welcome to Solitaire, also known as Klondike or Patience, the world's most popular single-player card game. This timeless classic has entertained millions since its inception in the late 19th century.

Challenge yourself with this strategic card game where your goal is to sort all cards by suit from Ace to King. Perfect for both quick breaks and extended gaming sessions, Solitaire helps improve concentration, strategic thinking, and pattern recognition.

Quick Start Guide

Game Objective

Build four foundation piles by suit, starting with Aces and ending with Kings. Complete all four piles to win the game!

Getting Started

Begin by revealing cards in the tableau and look for possible moves. Start building your foundation piles with any available Aces.

Complete Game Layout Guide

Stock Pile (Draw Pile)

• Located in the top left corner

• Contains face-down cards you can draw from

• Click to draw one or three cards (depending on game variation)

Waste Pile

• Next to the Stock Pile

• Shows cards drawn from the Stock Pile

• Top card is available for play

Foundation Piles

• Four piles in the top right

• Build up from Ace to King by suit

• Completing these piles is your goal

Tableau

• Seven columns of cards

• Main play area where most moves occur

• Build down in alternating colors

Comprehensive Game Rules

Tableau Rules

1. Cards must be placed in alternating colors (red and black)

2. Build in descending order (King to Ace)

3. Only Kings can be placed on empty columns

4. Can move single cards or groups of properly sequenced cards

Foundation Rules

1. Start each foundation pile with an Ace

2. Build up in sequence within the same suit

3. Cards can be moved back to the tableau if needed

4. All four piles must be completed to win

Stock and Waste Pile Rules

1. Draw cards when no moves are available

2. Only the top waste pile card is playable

3. Recycle through the deck multiple times if needed

4. Some variations limit the number of times through the deck

Winning Strategies

Basic Strategies

  • Always try to reveal face-down cards in the tableau
  • Keep color balance in mind when making moves
  • Don't rush to move cards to foundation piles
  • Create empty columns when possible

Advanced Tips

  • Plan several moves ahead
  • Use foundation piles as temporary storage
  • Keep track of buried cards
  • Consider alternative move sequences

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I move multiple cards at once?

A: Yes, you can move a sequence of cards together if they are in descending order and alternating colors. This is a crucial strategy for freeing up hidden cards and creating space for Kings.

Q: What happens when I run out of cards in the stock pile?

A: When you run out of cards in the stock pile, you can flip the waste pile over to create a new stock pile. This allows you to go through the deck multiple times. Some variations limit the number of times you can do this.

Q: Is every game winnable?

A: Not all Solitaire games are winnable. Studies suggest that approximately 80-90% of games can be won with optimal play. Factors like card distribution and initial layout significantly impact winnability. Don't get discouraged if you can't win every game!

Q: Can I undo my moves?

A: Yes, you can undo your last move using the Ctrl+Z shortcut or the undo button. This feature is especially helpful when learning the game or when you want to try different strategies. Some versions may limit the number of undos available.

Q: How is the score calculated?

A: Scoring varies by version, but typically you earn points for:
• Moving cards to foundation piles (10 points)
• Turning over face-down cards (5 points)
• Moving cards from waste to tableau (5 points)
Time bonuses may also apply in some versions.

History and Fun Facts

Solitaire, particularly the Klondike variation, gained widespread popularity during the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s. Prospectors would play to pass time in their camps, giving the game its name.

The game reached new heights of popularity in 1990 when Microsoft included it with Windows 3.0, making it one of the most played computer games of all time.

Today, millions of people play Solitaire daily, making it one of the most enduring card games in history.