How to Play Solitaire
Solitaire is a classic card game that has captivated players for generations and can now be played online.
Its simple rules and engaging gameplay make it a favorite pastime for many. Whether you’re looking to relax, challenge your mind, or pass the time, solitaire offers endless entertainment.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to play solitaire.
You’ll learn the basics of setting up the game, the rules to follow, and some tips and strategies to help you win.
Whether you’re new to the game or looking to improve your skills, this guide has something for everyone.
Solitaire Explained
Solitaire is a classic card game that aims to arrange cards into specific sequences and suits.
Online solitaire is the digital version of this game, allowing you to play on computers or mobile devices.
While both versions follow the same basic rules and objectives, online solitaire often includes features like hints, undo options, and various game modes that make it more interactive and convenient.
Additionally, online versions sometimes offer competitive play and real money stakes, adding a new dimension to the traditional solitaire experience.
Solitaire Rules
Solitaire uses a standard 52-card deck.
The objective is to get all 52 cards into four suited (foundation) piles in ascending order, from ace to king. A proper pile is as follows: (low) A-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-J-Q-K (high).
Online solitaire games can differ regarding bet sizes, payouts, and side bets. Therefore, you should always consult the rules screen before playing.
Game Layout
A casino solitaire game features four types of piles, as outlined in the image below.
- Foundation Piles – Four piles consisting of clubs, diamonds, hearts, and spades. An ace is the bottom card in each stack, while a king sits atop a completed pile.
- Tableau Piles – These are the seven starting piles on the main table.
- Stock (or “Hand”) Pile – Additional cards not in the tableau go in the stock pile, where extra cards come from as needed.
- Talon (or “Waste) Pile – Hand pile cards that don’t fit on the foundations or tableau go into the talon pile.
Tableau Pile Setup
The following is an example of what a tableau pile looks like at the start of a game round. All remaining cards go in the stock pile above tableau pile 1. The waste pile and foundations don’t contain any cards to start.
- Pile 1 – One face-up card.
- Pile 2 – One face-down card, one face-up card.
- Pile 3 – Two face-down cards, one face-up card.
- Pile 4 – Three face-down cards, one face-up card.
- Pile 5 – Four face-down cards, one face-up card.
- Pile 6 – FIve face-down cards, one face-up card.
How to Play Solitaire with Cards
As previously mentioned, online solitaire automates significants aspects of the game and even gives you hints.
However, knowing how to play on an actual deck is still essential for any solitaire player.
Below, I’ll walk you through the game’s fundamental steps.
Set Up the Game
Begin by shuffling a standard deck of 52 cards. Deal seven piles of cards in a row, each getting one more card than the previous one.
The top card of each pile is face up, while the rest are face down. Place the remaining cards in a draw pile.Understand the Layout
The layout consists of seven piles (known as tableau), a draw pile, and four foundation slots at the top.
Your aim is to move cards to the foundation piles, sorting them into four suits in ascending order from Ace to King.Move Cards to the Foundation
Start by moving Aces to the foundation piles. From there, build up each foundation by adding cards of the same suit in ascending order (2 through King).
You can only place cards of the same suit on top of each other in the foundation piles.Reveal and Move Tableau Cards
In the tableau, move cards to reveal face-down cards beneath. You can move cards around within the tableau to arrange them in descending order and alternating colors (e.g., a red 6 on a black 7).
Empty tableau spaces can be filled with Kings or cards in descending order.Draw and Use Cards
Draw cards from the draw pile one at a time (or three at a time, depending on the game rules) to find cards that will help you move to the foundation or rearrange the tableau.
Use these cards strategically to progress toward completing all foundation piles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Playing solitaire can be tricky, and even seasoned players make mistakes from time to time.
Here are some common errors to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them:
- Moving Cards Too Quickly: Rushing through moves can lead to missed opportunities and mistakes, so take your time to consider each move carefully. Ensure that every card placement is strategic and helps advance your game.
- Ignoring Face-Down Cards: Focusing only on visible cards can prevent you from revealing important cards hidden underneath. Prioritize moves that uncover face-down cards in the tableau. This will give you more options and reveal valuable cards.
- Misplacing Cards: Placing cards in incorrect piles or not following the correct sequence can hinder your progress. Double-check the rules for card placement in the foundation piles and tableau. Ensure that you only place cards of the same suit in the correct order.
- Overusing the Draw Pile: Drawing too many cards from the draw pile without considering their usefulness can lead to fewer options later. Use the draw pile strategically. Only draw cards when necessary, and make sure they contribute to your overall strategy.
- Neglecting Empty Tableau Spaces: Failing to utilize empty tableau spaces effectively can limit your ability to move cards around. Use empty tableau spaces to place Kings or sequences of cards, allowing you to rearrange and uncover more cards.
By being aware of these common mistakes and applying these fixes, you’ll improve your solitaire skills and enhance your overall gameplay experience.
Play Online Solitaire for Free
Demo mode allows you to become familiar with the real money version of solitaire without risking any money.
Solitaire Winning Strategy
Unlike many online casino games, solitaire isn’t solely about luck and includes strategy. You can use the following casino solitaire tips to boost your win rate.
Big Stacks First
The bigger stacks (e.g., tableau piles 5-7) contain the most hidden cards.
You want to do whatever possible to uncover the bigger stacks.
This feature may not always be possible, but you should at least try.
Make Small Piles
Some players think they’re doing a good thing by forming a big stack rather than keeping smaller piles.
However, smaller stacks are better because they provide more options for revealing face-down cards.
Have an Intention
You may feel tempted to add foundation cards whenever possible.
A better idea is to add foundation cards only when necessary.
Leaving cards in the tableau longer provides more options.
It’s theoretically possible to win around 80% of solitaire games. However, due to a margin for error, the average player wins closer to 40% of the time (2:3 odds).
The Different Online Solitaire Variants Available
Solitaire might seem like solitaire, but it comes in different variations. You’ll commonly find the following four games in online casinos or free-play sites.
Klondike
Klondike is the most-popular solitaire variation because it came with older Microsoft Windows software. It’s widely available in most online casinos and forms the basis for other variants.
Spider
Spider is another game that came with older Windows software, albeit a harder one than Klondike. Spider ups the difficulty level by featuring two card decks instead of one.
FreeCell
Yet another old Windows game, FreeCell, is an easy game to learn but a tough one to win. The good news is that you can still win quite often with enough experience and skill.
Yukon
Yukon differs from other games on this list by letting you move entire face-up card groups—sequence notwithstanding. The goal is to uncover and turn over all face-down cards.
Is Online Solitaire Worth It?
Playing solitaire online is a worthwhile gaming option, offering both convenience and enhanced features that elevate the classic game.
The digital format makes it easy to play anytime, anywhere, without needing a physical deck of cards.
Online solitaire provides a more engaging and user-friendly experience with options for hints, undoing moves, and various game modes.
The potential for competitive play and real money stakes excite those seeking an extra challenge.
Overall, it’s a great way to enjoy a timeless game in a modern, accessible way.
Have Fun Playing Solitaire!
Solitaire is a classic game that’s both fun and challenging.
With the basics covered and strategies in hand, you’re ready to enjoy the game, whether on a physical deck or online.
Avoid common mistakes, and use hints and undos wisely to boost your gameplay.
Now, put your new knowledge to the test and enjoy the satisfying challenge of solitaire. Have fun and good luck.
If you’re confident about your skills and want to add excitement to your game, you can play casino solitaire for real money.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some common questions we receive about playing casino solitaire.
Can you play Solitaire at land-based casinos?
No, at this moment, there isn’t a solitaire version of the game at land-based casinos. You can play solitaire at online casinos or through social casino apps.
Is casino solitaire fair?
Reputable casinos and online platforms ensure fairness through regulated software and random number generators (RNGs), providing an unbiased gaming experience.
Is solitaire a casino game?
Although less popular than other casino card games like blackjack or baccarat, solitaire can be played for real money as casino solitaire.
This video format can be found online or played in physical casinos. It allows you to place wagers before making moves.
