How to Play Solitaire
Solitaire, also known as Klondike or Patience, is a classic single-player card game enjoyed by millions worldwide. The goal is to move all 52 cards to the four foundation piles, sorted by suit from Ace to King.
Rules
- Build tableau columns in descending order, alternating red and black suits.
- Move Aces to foundations, then stack cards of the same suit in ascending order.
- Draw from the stock pile when no other moves are available.
- Only Kings can be placed on empty tableau columns.
Click or drag cards to move them. Click a card to auto-send it to a foundation if possible.
Solitaire Strategy & Tips
Winning at Solitaire requires a mix of strategy and careful planning. While luck plays a role in the cards you are dealt, skilled players can significantly increase their win rate by following proven strategies.
- Always move an Ace or Deuce to the foundation as soon as it becomes available.
- Expose hidden cards in the tableau whenever possible — uncovering face-down cards gives you more options.
- Keep tableau columns balanced. Avoid emptying a column unless you have a King ready to fill the space.
- Be cautious about moving cards to the foundation too early. Sometimes keeping a card in the tableau provides more flexibility.
- When choosing between two moves, prioritize the one that reveals a face-down card.
History of Solitaire
Solitaire has a rich history dating back to the 18th century in Northern Europe. The game was originally called "Patience" and was popular in France, Germany, and Scandinavia before spreading across the world. The Klondike variant — the version most people know today — became widely popular during the Gold Rush era in the late 1800s.
Solitaire gained massive mainstream popularity in 1990 when Microsoft included it in Windows 3.0. The digital version introduced millions of computer users to the game, making it one of the most-played games in history. Today, free online Solitaire games continue to attract players of all ages looking for a relaxing yet mentally stimulating card game.
Why Play Solitaire Online?
Playing Solitaire online offers several advantages over the traditional card game. There is no need to shuffle or deal physical cards — the game sets up instantly. You can track your moves automatically, undo mistakes, and enjoy a clean, distraction-free interface optimized for both desktop and mobile devices.
Our free online Solitaire game features smooth drag-and-drop controls, automatic card placement, and a responsive design that works beautifully on any screen size. Whether you are on a lunch break, commuting, or relaxing at home, you can enjoy a quick game of classic Klondike Solitaire anytime, anywhere — no downloads or sign-ups required.