Unveiling the World of Solitaire: How Many Varieties Are There?

April 2, 2024

Solitaire, a game that’s been keeping minds sharp since the 1700s, is more than just a single game. In fact, it’s a world of games with over 500 versions to its name. Originating in Europe, Solitaire quickly spread across the globe, with each region adding their unique twist, resulting in the multitude of versions we have today.

You might be familiar with the classic Klondike version that comes pre-loaded on most Windows PCs, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There’s a whole universe of Solitaire variations out there, each with its own rules and strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, there’s always a new version of Solitaire waiting to challenge your skills.

Read about the benefits of Solitaire: HERE

1. Klondike Solitaire

Klondike Solitaire is often the first variation that comes to mind when one thinks of the classic game of Solitaire. Its popularity is undeniable – it’s the version that’s most commonly included with operating systems like Microsoft’s Windows, after all. Here’s a quick rundown of its rules:

  • The game is played with a standard deck of 52 cards.
  • Seven piles are formed on the tableau, each containing an increasing number of cards.
  • The goal is to build four foundations, each corresponding to a suit, in ascending order from Ace to King.

Let’s address a couple of frequently asked questions about Klondike Solitaire:

Frequently asked:

  • Can I move groups of cards in Klondike Solitaire? In standard Klondike, you can only move groups of cards if they are all in the same suit and in descending order.
  • What’s the difference between the one-card and three-card draw in Klondike Solitaire? The one-card draw allows you to go through the deck one card at a time, while the three-card draw presents a greater challenge, by letting you draw three cards at a time, but only use the top one.

Learn the best strategy: HERE

2. Spider Solitaire – One Suit, Two Suit & Gigantic

Spider Solitaire – One Suit, Two Suits, & Gigantic, comprises several captivating variations of Solitaire that authentically engage players’ strategic skills. Each version presents unique challenges, yet shares standard Solitaire game play elements, notably foundations, stockpile, and discard pile.

Spider Solitaire – One Suit

Read about Spider: HERE

An easy variant of Spider, Spider Solitaire – One Suit typically uses Spades. Some highlights of this version include:

  • Uses a single suit
  • Easier to build upon foundations
  • High possibility of winning

Frequently asked:

  • Why is Solitaire Spider preferred by beginners? It’s simpler, with cards of the same suit easy to sequence.
  • Why are spades used normally for Spider Solitaire? Tradition rather than a rule, easy identification for beginners.

Spider Solitaire – Two Suits

Intermediate level Spider Solitaire – Two Suits game, normally uses Spades and Hearts. Considerations for the two-suit version:

  • Uses two different suits
  • Increased complexity from one suit version
  • Requires a higher level of skill

Frequently asked:

  • How challenging is two suit Spider Solitaire? Moderately challenging, sequencing two suits adds complexity.
  • Which suits are commonly used for 2 suit Spider Solitaire? Typically Spades and Hearts, but can vary.

Spider Solitaire – Gigantic

The most challenging variant, Spider Solitaire – Gigantic, uses four decks. Some factors of this game type:

  • Up to four suits in play
  • Highest skill level required
  • Unrivaled complexity in moves and strategies

Frequently asked:

  • Why is it named Spider Solitaire Gigantic? It uses a maximum of four decks—thus the moniker.
  • What’s the typical winning ratio of Spider Solitaire Gigantic? Estimates give a win rate of approximately 1 in 3 games.

As mentioned in the previous section, players are drawn to these games not only because they’re engaging but also due to fascinating underlying themes. For instance, the name “Spider Solitaire” comes from the eight foundations, symbolic of a spider’s eight legs. In the next section, I’ll discuss why Solitaire remains relevant in the digital age.

3. FreeCell

Promising strategic gameplay and a high solvability rate, FreeCell holds a unique spot in the realm of Solitaire variations. While it shares commonalities with Klondike, FreeCell requires a more refined approach.

Read about FreeCell: HERE

The Basics of FreeCell

  • Single deck game with seven piles of cards
  • Unlike other versions, there’s no stockpile
  • The goal is to build the four piles of foundations by suit
  • Deal seven cards each into the first four columns, and six cards each into the remaining ones. Note: All cards face up in FreeCell.

As you navigate the FreeCell landscape, remember to move cards from one column onto another in descending order by alternating color. Each foundation pile starts with an ace of each suit. Continue to add cards of the same suit in ascending order. This version of Solitaire offers you four ‘free cells’ above the tableau. You can use them to move cards out of the way and access other playable ones.

  • FreeCell stands out for having the highest ‘winnability’ rate among Solitaire games.
  • The player deals with face-up cards and has free cells for storing reserve cards.

Frequently asked:

  • How does FreeCell differ from other Solitaire versions? Unlike other versions, all cards in FreeCell face up. Plus, it gives you free cells to store reserve cards.
  • What’s the win condition for FreeCell? You win by assembling cards by suit into their foundation piles from ace to king.

4. Solitaire Cube

Solitaire Cube takes solitaire gaming to a whole new level. It’s an exciting variation that caters to all card game enthusiasts, bringing a unique blend of strategy and luck into play. Known for its similarities with Egyptian pyramids, this game’s been a reader-favorite, globally acclaimed for decades.

Learn how to play Solitaire Cube: HERE

Game Rules:

  • The game uses one deck of 52 cards and four suits.
  • All cards must be assembled on the tableau, moving to the foundation pile in ascending order: A,2,10,J,Q, and K of the same suit.
  • Notable feature: four empty cells or free spaces available in the tableau to move cards strategically.

Frequently asked:

  • What makes Solitaire Cube different from traditional solitaire games? Solitaire Cube differs from traditional solitaire games by incorporating cash competitions and real-money wagering.
  • What strategies can be employed to increase winning chances in Solitaire Cube? To increase winning chances in Solitaire Cube, players can focus on quickly identifying moves that uncover hidden cards and aim to clear columns to reveal more potential moves.

A deep dive into its history reveals that Solitaire Cube originated in the 1940s, inspired by scientists’ groundbreaking work to split atoms. Widely available as “Tut’s Tomb” in the Microsoft Entertainment Pack 2 in 1991, it’s since found a place in the hearts of solitaire fans on various platforms, including Microsoft 8, 10, Android, and iOS devices.

Next, onto another intriguing version, Fission Solitaire. This strategic, high winning potential game promises a mind-bending experience – ensuring you never view solitaire the same way again.

5. Pyramid Solitaire

I’ll plunge next into Pyramid Solitaire. This intriguing variant takes its name from the pyramid shape the cards form on the tableau. This format asks players to use their strategy and wit to clear the pyramid while observing specific rules.

Read about Pyramid: HERE

Here are some key rules for Pyramid Solitaire:

  • Players create paired combinations equalling 13
  • The King stands alone with a value of 13
  • Cards buried under others are inaccessible until uncovered

Frequently asked:

  • Is Pyramid Solitaire purely a game of luck? No, it’s not. Winning at Pyramid Solitaire requires a combination of skill and luck. Strategic removal of the cards is vital to achieve victory.
  • What platform options are available for playing Pyramid Solitaire? Pyramid Solitaire is available to play on traditional physical playing cards. However, digital versions are available online as well as mobile apps, making it easy to enjoy anywhere, anytime.

Hang in there, we’ve got a plethora of intriguing versions coming up. After diving deep into Pyramid Solitaire, let’s prepare to plunge into the mechanics of another variant in the fascinating world of Solitaire.

6. Accordion

Accordion is yet another variant in the diverse repertoire of solitaire games. This variation demands sharp strategy and foresight to be successful. Its claim to fame? An unyielding challenge with every round.

Unlike most solitaire games Accordion doesn’t rely on suits or sequences. Instead, the gameplay hinges on the location of the cards on the tableau. Here’s the gist:

  • The whole deck is dealt out in a line
  • Only the top card of each pile is in play
  • Cards can move if they are same suit or rank
  • Can move onto a card a space or three spaces away
  • Goal is to compress entire deck into one pile

A challenging match of Accordion can keep you engaged for hours. Check out these FAQs to optimize your game:

Frequently asked:

  • What’s the strategy in Accordion Solitaire? A player should anticipate moves and sequence carefully to reduce the number of piles on the board.
  • What makes Accordion different from other Solitaire games? Unlike other variants, Accordion doesn’t rely on suits or sequences. The position of cards determines your moves.

With these guide points, I bet you’re all set to dive headfirst into a round of Accordion. As always, in the vast world of Solitaire, there’s more to uncover. So, who’s ready to explore the next variant?

7. Aces Up

A unique twist on solitaire gameplay, Aces Up offers a blend of both concentration and luck.

  • Initial setup: Four cards are dealt face up to start the game.
  • Gameplay mechanics: Only the top cards of the tableau piles and discard pile are in play.
  • Victory: The game is won when all cards except the four aces are discarded.

Playing Aces Up helps you:

  • Brush up strategic thinking.
  • Understand the odds in gameplay.

Frequently asked:

  • What makes Aces Up different from other solitaire games? Aces Up discards comparatively more cards, making it unique among other solitaire variants.
  • Is Aces Up more difficult or easier to win? Aces Up is largely based on luck. The degree of challenge can vary greatly between each game.

8. Alteration

Shifting perspective from conventional Solitaire, let’s enter the intriguing world of Alteration Solitaire games. An array of exciting variants add a unique twist, moving beyond the standard gameplay to offer refreshing challenges.

Pas de Deux Solitaire, infused with the elegance of a ballet dance-off, it pushes players to pair cards while considering numerical values.

  • Cards must be paired such that their sum equals a multiple of ten.
  • Sequence isn’t a factor here; it’s all about careful calculation.

Frequently asked:

  • How’s scoring handled in Pas de Deux Solitaire? In Pas de Deux Solitaire, scoring is based on the number of cards remaining in the deck at the end of the game, with lower scores indicating better performance.
  • What strategies are most effective? Effective strategies in Pas de Deux Solitaire include prioritizing moves that free up tableau columns, aiming to build down in alternate colors, and strategically using reserve cards to uncover hidden cards.

Next up, we have Patriarch’s Solitaire, a game that skillfully combines elements of luck and strategy.

  • It starts with a partial deck, setting up a unique card layout.
  • The goal is to move cards to foundation piles by following suit and sequence.

Frequently asked:

  • What chance-element is integrated into Patriarch’s Solitaire that isn’t present in classic Solitaire? In Patriarch’s Solitaire, the chance element integrated is the initial dealing of the partial deck, which introduces variability not present in classic Solitaire.
  • How does the partial deck affect standard strategies? The partial deck in Patriarch’s Solitaire affects standard strategies by limiting the number of cards available for initial moves, requiring players to adapt their tactics based on the specific cards dealt.

Between these and powerhouses like Pharaoh’s Grave Solitaire, players have countless ways to engage with solitaire in its Alteration form. With each presenting its own set of rules and strategic demands, the journey into Solitaire’s landscape becomes continually fascinating. I encourage solitaire enthusiasts to expand their gameplay and explore these novel styles for a whole new card playing experience.

9. Amazon

Let’s take a closer look at Amazons Solitaire. It’s a slightly novel take on traditional solitaire that offers an engaging twist.

As with all solitaire games, there are specific rules that dictate gameplay in Amazons Solitaire:

  • It starts with 10 piles of 4 cards each.
  • The top card in each pile is available for play.
  • The goal is to move all cards to a foundation by suit from Ace to King.

But remember, each variant brings a fresh flavor to your gaming experience.

Frequently asked:

  • How does Amazons Solitaire differ from other Solitaire games? In Amazon Solitaire, you start with 10 piles of cards rather than the typical seven in classic solitaire.
  • Can I play Amazons Solitaire online? Absolutely. There are various platforms offering Amazons Solitaire online, so you can enjoy the game whenever you want.

In the end, what matters most is finding the solitaire variant that best suits your style and preference. So, why not try out Amazons Solitaire and see how you find it. That’s the beauty of solitaire: endless possibilities and countless games to explore.

10. Bristol Solitaire

Another intriguing version of solitaire is Bristol Solitaire. A game known for its intriguing layout and unconventional gameplay. Its unique twist lies in the leveraging of empty spaces for strategic moves.

Key Rules:

  • Begins with a layout of 24 cards in a 3×8 grid.
  • Only the top card in each column is eligible for play.
  • Empty columns may be filled with any card.

Frequently asked:

  • What’s the goal in Bristol Solitaire? The aim is to relocate all cards into the foundations by suit in ascending order, grading from Ace to King.
  • Is Bristol Solitaire harder than classic Solitaire? While the difficulty varies based on player tactics, Bristol Solitaire’s unconventional rules often present a moderately higher challenge than the classic variant.

Through exploration of the various Solitaire variants, not only do we experience diverse gameplay but also hone our tactical skills. So, you might just find Bristol Solitaire matching your taste, delivering a stimulating blend of classic solitaire with a puzzling twist.

11. Carpet

Introduced as the 11th variant in this article, Carpet Solitaire offers its own unique spin on the classic card game. Reminiscent of oriental carpets in its arrangements, Carpet Solitaire is a compelling game that melds strategy with a stroke of luck.

  • The game table is set with a grid arrangement mimicking a carpet.
  • Cards are dealt in a way that when flipped, can only be moved to the foundations.
  • The seven card draw pile on the top can be used to add cards to the game grid.

Frequently asked:

  • Can I rearrange cards in the Carpet? No, the cards, once dealt to the carpet layout, cannot be rearranged. They can only be moved to the foundations.
  • Is the draw pile used in Carpet Solitaire?Yes, the draw pile is used for adding cards to the game grid.

Navigating these rules will undoubtedly add a layer of intrigue to your Solitaire experience. From here, we’ll delve into even more exciting variations in the realm of Solitaire games.

12. Castles in Spain

Sailing into yet another version, let’s unravel the secrets of Castles in Spain Solitaire. Unlike other variations, it’s a game that blends unpredictability with strategy.

  • The entire deck is laid out into eight piles
  • Only the top cards can be moved, making strategy important
  • Sequences move downward regardless of suit

Frequently asked:

  • How can I enhance my strategy for Castles in Spain? The key is to always keep options open. Prioritize making moves that will unveil hidden cards.
  • Are all games of Castles in Spain winnable? No, it’s largely dependent on the initial layout.

The assortment of Solitaire games continues to expand beyond the expected, reigniting players’ love for this timeless card game. Next up, we’ll explore the charm of Chessboard Solitaire.

13. Clock Solitaire

Clock Solitaire, also known as Clock Patience, is a unique variation on the classic solitaire game. As the name implies, the layout of this game resembles a clock, with 13 piles of four cards each placed in a circular pattern. Here’s how it’s played:

  • The game commences by putting a single card so that it corresponds with the card’s face value, in Clock Solitaire, picture cards have the values: Jack – 11, Queen – 12, King – 13 (center pile).
  • In the event that a Joker is drawn from the deck, it must be placed in the center pile.
  • The primary goal is to get all the cards into their rightful pile before uncovering all four Kings.

Learn how to play Clock Solitaire: HERE

Frequently asked:

  • Is Clock Solitaire winnable on the first try? Well, Clock Solitaire is mostly a game of chance, so winning on the first try largely depends on the luck of the draw.
  • Can you go through the deck more than once in Clock Solitaire? No, you can only go through the deck once. This amplifies the unpredictability and thrill inherent in Clock Solitaire.

Next, let’s dive into another intriguing Solitaire version; the Citadel Solitaire. As a player looking to enrich your Solitaire experience, you’ll appreciate the distinctive gameplay Citadel brings to the table.

14. Colorado

Next on our list of diverse Solitaire editions, we’ve got Colorado. This intriguing variant introduces a refreshing twist to the traditional rules, enhancing both strategy and unpredictability in the gameplay.

  • In Colorado, you start with 20 cards laid out on the tableau and eight foundation piles
  • The end goal is to build four complete foundation piles to secure a win

Unlike many Solitaire games, Colorado strays from the standard layout, introducing 20 cards on the tableau for an added challenge. Handling a larger number of cards tests your strategic thinking, demanding careful consideration for every move.

Frequently asked:

  • How Does Colorado Differ from Other Solitaire Games? Colorado stands out with its 20-card tableau layout and requirement of four complete foundation piles.
  • What’s the Key to Winning Colorado? Successful Colorado players maintain a solid strategy, concentrating on building four complete foundation piles.

Brimming with excitement and loaded with strategic possibilities, Colorado throws in a welcome change to the Solitaire family. Brace yourself for the thrill as we explore further versions.

15. Concentration

Another intriguing variant in the realm of Solitaire is Concentration. Off the beaten path, this game revamps the traditional Solitaire formula in a unique way.

  • The goal isn’t to build suites or sequences like in most Solitaire versions. Instead, we’re looking for pairs in the tableau.
  • Players need keen memory skills. Cards are laid face down, and you flip two at a time in search of matches.
  • If you find a pair, it’s removed from the tableau, and the search continues.
  • The game keeps you on your toes, as remembering card positions becomes vital.

Frequently asked:

  • Is Concentration Solitaire easy to play? Indeed, it’s straightforward! Though differing from traditional Solitaire, it’s all about finding and recalling pairs.
  • Is Concentration Solitaire good for my brain? Absolutely! It engages your memory and quick decision-making skills, providing a fun yet productive mental workout.

16. Deuces

Shifting our focus, let’s take a closer look into Deuces Solitaire. A standout amongst its counterparts, Deuces Solitaire is known for offering a distinctive blend of strategy and chance.

  • Deuces Solitaire starts with an entire deck, excluding aces, shuffled and dealt out in a predetermined layout.
  • The main aim is to build up four foundations by suit, beginning with deuces on the left.
  • This is achieved by moving cards to vacant spots given they are of the same suit and an immediate higher value.

Frequently asked:

  • What makes Deuces Solitaire unique from other variants? The removal of aces, reliance on deuces to commence the suit-based sequences, and the ability to only move cards to empty spaces of the same suit, fortifies Deuces Solitaire’s uniqueness.
  • Is Deuces Solitaire more difficult or easy compared to standard Solitaire? It primarily relies on players’ aptitude to strategize, making it both uniquely challenging and exciting, as the thrill mounts with each move.

17. Four Seasons

Four Seasons Solitaire is another exciting variant that captivates players’ interest, gaining solid ground among solitaire variants. Known for its unique layout and challenging gameplay, it showcases a blend of strategic planning.

  • Rule 1: Based on card distribution, the game has four foundation piles, one for each season.
  • Rule 2: Players must try to move all cards from the tableau to these piles.
  • Rule 3: As soon as you free a card that can be placed on a foundation pile, you must do so.

Frequently asked:

  • What makes Four Seasons Solitaire unique? It’s the unique representation of the four foundation piles representing the four seasons, adding a distinct charm to the game.
  • What’s the biggest challenge in Four Seasons Solitaire? The major challenge lies in making strategic decisions to uncover hidden tableau cards and transfer them to the right foundation pile.

18. Fourteen Out

The perfect fusion of chance and strategy, Fourteen Out is a solitaire variant that keeps players on edge with its unique gameplay.

  • It’s primarily a game where you must release pairs of cards that total fourteen.
  • There’s a twist in Fourteen Out. Kings are removed singly, so you need a keen eye and strategic mind to succeed as it’s not as straightforward as other variants.

Frequently asked:

  • How can I maximize my success in Fourteen Out? To excel in this game, planning and foresight are crucial. Keep a close eye on the tableau and consider your moves carefully.

19. Gate

One of the most challenging and intriguing variants, Gate solitaire swings open the doorways to strategic card gaming.

  • Gate solitaire differs from other types because it’s not about building up suits, but arranging cards to open ‘gates’.
  • A deal consists of 4 cards which need to be arranged in order to have a clear strategy.
  • Players must strategically empty or fill gaps to create new opportunities.

Frequently asked:

  • Is Gate Solitaire hard to understand? It’s a unique strategy game that may take a few tries, but it’s worth your time.
  • Can I improve my performance in Gate Solitaire? Yes, as with many solitaire games, practicing Gate Solitaire can sharpen your planning and decision-making abilities.

20. Joker Klondike

Meet Joker Klondike, your favorite solitaire with a twist that shakes it up. It’s a lot like regular Klondike solitaire, but here, the jokers aren’t shuffled aside, rather they grab the limelight.

Here are some critical aspects of the game:

  • It follows the same rules as regular Klondike
  • The game becomes more enjoyable with the addition of jokers

Frequently asked:

  • What makes Joker Klondike different from regular Klondike? In Joker Klondike, jokers add an exciting element to the gameplay, making it stand out from regular Klondike.
  • Is Joker Klondike more challenging than regular Klondike?While the fundamental rules remain the same, the introduction of jokers introduces a new variable, adding an extra layer of challenge to the game.

So there you have it, all about Joker Klondike. If you thought Klondike was fun, wait till you try this variant.

21. Laggard Lady

Laggard Lady is a solitaire variant that is a true test of strategic thinking. The player’s patience, planning, and perspicacity will all come into play in this dynamic and engaging version of the classic card game.

Key rules of Laggard Lady Solitaire include:

  • Rule 1: The game begins with a shuffled deck of 52 cards.
  • Rule 2: The goal is to arrange cards in a particular order.

Frequently asked:

  • How is the winning probability in Laggard Lady? The winning probability in Laggard Lady, like other solitaire variants, varies depending upon the player’s strategy and understanding of the game.
  • What sets Laggard Lady apart from other solitaire versions? What truly makes Laggard Lady stand out is the unique blend of strategy and patience it requires. This particular solitaire variant is not just about card placement, but strategic planning and execution as well.

Dive deeper into this particular solitaire variant and you’ll surely appreciate its unique strategic elements that offer a fresh and exciting experience to all card game lovers. Whether you’re a novice or a master, Laggard Lady provides a remarkable journey in the realm of solitaire games. Remember, it’s not about winning or losing, it’s about enjoying the play.

22. Octave

In the captivating world of solitaire, Octave offers a unique twist. This entrancing game tests your strategic thinking, requiring not only careful placement but also an understanding of the game’s distinctive dynamics.

Highlighted features of Octave:

  • Eight piles are present, thus the name ‘Octave’
  • Careful attention needed for card sequencing
  • Autonomy in choosing the deck’s color scheme

Frequently asked:

  • Why is it called Octave? Octave, in a musical sense, refers to a series of eight notes. In the same way, this solitaire variant is designed around eight piles, signifying the term ‘Octave’.

23. Portuguese Solitaire

Portuguese Solitaire is another fantastic variant in the world of card games. This unique mode ups the excitement in strategic gameplay, challenging even the most seasoned players.

Diving into its dynamics, there are significant rules that define Portuguese Solitaire:

  • The foundation piles start with the Aces and build in ascending order by suit.
  • The tableau is dealt with one card face up while the remainder is face down.
  • Available plays involve moving single cards or runs of cards regardless of suit or sequence.
  • Spaces in the tableau can only be filled with Kings.

Frequently asked:

  • What do you do with face-down cards in the tableau? In this version, you flip a face-down card in the tableau each time you move a face-up card that’s lying on top of it.
  • Can I move card sequences around? Yes, Portuguese Solitaire allows moving groups of cards as a unit, even if they’re not in sequence, facilitating flexible moves and strategic arrangements.

Moving forward in our exploration, we delve into yet another intriguing variant, Precedence Solitaire, known for its unique order-based gameplay. From rank-triggered movements to an interesting scoring system, it introduces facets that make the solitaire realm richer.

24. Streets

Delving further into the captivating world of solitaire, let’s take a moment to explore Streets solitaire. Known for its unique layout, Streets offers a different approach to the traditional gameplay of solitaire games.

  • Streets kicks off with a tableau of 13 piles, each containing three cards.
  • This intriguing setup can be quite the brain teaser, as cards can only be played from the bottommost of each pile.
  • Creating a unique challenge, no cards are placed in the foundations during the initial deal.

The fast-paced gameplay, coupled with its unique layout, makes Streets a must-try for any solitaire aficionado.

Frequently asked:

  • How is Streets solitaire differ from traditional solitaire games? Streets solitaire deviates from traditional solitaire games mainly due to its distinctive layout and intricates gameplay involving thirteen piles.
  • What makes Streets solitaire a challenging game? The challenge in Streets solitaire lies in its rule where only bottommost cards can be played, adding a strategic twist to the gameplay.

25. The Herring-Bone

This long game of The Herring-Bone Solitaire adds a unique tang of challenge for experienced players. It’s a robust solitaire variant played with 2 decks, creating an intricate tableau that can test your strategic acumen.

Foundation Rules:

  • Players build 16 foundation decks varying from 6 to Jack, and 5 to King in an alternating fashion.

Tableau Set-up:

  • Game starts with a tableau of 13 piles with three cards each.
  • Unlike other solitaire games, only the bottom card of each pile is playable.

Moreover, the game doesn’t initially place any cards in the foundation decks. So, be ready to adapt on the fly with this distinctive no re-deal rule!

Frequently asked:

  • Do the foundation piles follow suit order? No, the foundation piles only follow number order in The Herring-Bone Solitaire.
  • Can I add cards to tableau piles irrespective of their color? Unfortunately, no. The game rules specify that while adding cards to tableau piles, they must be one lower and of a different color.

Digging into the streets of solitaire variants indeed keeps presenting captivating twists! Let’s continue exploring the myriad layouts that add thrill and complexity to the world of solitaire games.

26. Three Blind Mice

The Three Blind Mice, a fun yet intricate member of the solitaire family, is best played with strategic insight into your deck of 52 cards.

  • The tableau starts with nine columns, each harboring three cards faced down and one card turned upright.
  • The objective? Clear the tableau and build four foundations in ascending order from Ace to King.
  • Stack tableau cards in descending order, but here’s the catch – only within the same suit!

Frequently asked:

  • Can I shift a group of cards in Three Blind Mice solitaire? Yes! If they’re sequenced in descending order of the same suit, you’re free to move them as one unit.
  • What happens to the mice if I win the game? A win means you’ve got the mice “out of the house”–a term used to describe a cleared tableau!

27. Wasp

Among various Spider solitaire variations, Wasp holds a prominent position with its unique gameplay aspects. It’s found within the same family as conventional Spider and Yukon solitaires and uses the standard deck of 52 cards. Dealing follows a pattern akin to Scorpion where it uses a 7 by 7 design of 7 columns and 7 cards, with four of these columns holding three cards.

Key game highlights:

  • Standard 52 card deck usage
  • Unique 7 by 7 dealing design
  • Close ties with Spider and Yukon solitaires

Frequently asked:

  • What makes Wasp distinct? Wasp’s unique 7 by 7 dealing design and its ties with widely played Spider and Yukon solitaires make it effortlessly stand out.
  • Is understanding Wasp difficult? Although it bears similarities to Spider and Yukon, Wasp requires its own strategic understanding due to its unique dealing design. Grasping the game’s nuances might require multiple gameplay iterations.

After exploring the intricate world of solitaire, it’s clear that the game offers far more than the classic version we’re all familiar with. From the unique dealing design of Wasp to the strategic insights required for mastery, the depth and diversity of solitaire are truly impressive. However, it’s the Yukon solitaire that stands out with its close ties to both Spider and Wasp, offering a unique blend of these two popular variants. So whether you’re a seasoned solitaire player or just starting out, there’s always a new version to discover and conquer. Happy gaming!


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