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Understand the basics of Klondike Solitaire

Bring this focus to a round

For a calm first round, focus on one decision. Select a face-up card and then the destination pile or Empty slot. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

The objective of a round

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Take the next action only when the current step is clear. Begin with the objective.

The steps to play

  1. Build down in alternating colours; kings fill empty columns. Valid ordered runs move together.
  2. Select a face-up card and then the destination pile or Empty slot.
  3. Move exposed cards onto suit foundations in the stated rank order.
  4. Undo reverses a choice. New deal shuffles again.

Using the playing area

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. Check the relevant controls before continuing. A clear plan starts with the current position.

Work through an example

A red 6 fits a black 7, not another red 7. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

Pay attention to this rule

Before making a move, check the cards in view. Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. Use another round to revisit a decision.

Common questions

What is the aim?

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Treat this as a chance to practise one rule. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

How do I use the controls?

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. Look at the complete hand before deciding. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

Which format is available?

One deck; draw-one or draw-three stock; waste recycling. Free solo play, no wagering. Take a moment to read the table. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

What should I check before a move?

Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. Before making a move, check the cards in view. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

Can you give an example?

A red 6 fits a black 7, not another red 7. Take a moment to read the table. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

What completes a round?

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Begin with the objective. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

Which controls should I use?

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. Keep the active rule in mind. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

Which version is played here?

One deck; draw-one or draw-three stock; waste recycling. Free solo play, no wagering. Keep the active rule in mind. Check the relevant controls before continuing.

Does play involve an account or cash?

No. Play is free, without registration, deposits, bets or cash prizes. Take a moment to read the table. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

What completes a round?

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Treat this as a chance to practise one rule. Use another round to revisit a decision.