Russian Solitaire

Russian Solitaire is one of the most difficult solitaire variants. It uses the same layout as Yukon — all 52 cards dealt to 7 tableau columns with no stock pile. The critical difference is that tableau building must follow same-suit descending order instead of alternating colors. For example, you can only place the 6 of Hearts on the 7 of Hearts, not on the 7 of Spades. Like Yukon, you can move any face-up card along with all cards on top of it. Foundations build up by suit from Ace to King. Only Kings can fill empty columns. The win rate is significantly lower than standard Klondike or Yukon due to the strict same-suit requirement.

• Think several moves ahead — the same-suit restriction makes every move much more consequential than in Yukon.
• Uncover face-down cards aggressively. With no stock pile, the cards in the tableau are all you have.
• Empty columns are your most valuable asset. Use them wisely as temporary holding spaces.
• Focus on building one suit at a time rather than trying to work on all four simultaneously.
• Accept that many Russian Solitaire deals are unwinnable. Don't hesitate to start a new game if you're stuck early.