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Klondike Solitaire Turn 3: Play Online & Free

Klondike Solitaire Turn 3 is a classic card game with a clever twist. Instead of drawing one card at a time, you draw three, adding challenge, strategy, and satisfaction for thoughtful players.

Whether you're returning to a childhood favorite or trying Solitaire for the first time, this version rewards planning and patience. In this guide, we’ll walk through the setup, rules, scoring, tips, and where to play online, no download needed.

What Is Klondike Solitaire Turn 3?

Klondike Solitaire Turn 3 is a more challenging version of the classic Solitaire game. Instead of drawing one card, you draw three at a time from the Stockpile. Only the top card of the three is playable, which limits your immediate options and adds difficulty.

This version is also called “Draw 3” Solitaire. It’s an excellent choice for players who enjoy planning and solving puzzles. If you’ve mastered the one-card draw, Turn 3 offers the next level of strategy and satisfaction.

Klondike Turn 3 Setup and Game Layout

klondike solitaire turn 3 setup

Klondike Turn 3 uses a standard 52‑card deck divided into four main areas: the Tableau, Foundation, Stockpile pile, and Waste pile.

The Tableau

The Tableau has seven columns where most gameplay happens. Build descending card sequences in alternating colors to reveal face‑down cards and create new moves.

The Foundation

The Foundation includes four suit piles, one for each suit. Start with the Ace, then build upward in order until each pile ends with a King.

The Stockpile and Waste Piles

The Stockpile pile holds undealt cards. Draw three cards at once into the Waste pile. Only the top Waste card can be played immediately.

Face‑Down and Face‑Up Cards

Most Tableau columns begin with face‑down cards. When you move a face‑up card, the hidden card beneath it flips over and becomes available for play.

How to Play Klondike Turn 3 Online at Solitaire.com

You can start playing Klondike Turn 3 in seconds. Just open Solitaire.com choose Turn 3, and click Start.

The game runs right in your browser, no signup or download needed. Use your mouse or finger to move cards. If you're unsure what to do next, try the Hint or Undo buttons for guidance.

Solitaire.com works smoothly on computers, tablets, and phones. You can play anytime, anywhere.

Turn 3 vs. Turn 1: Key Differences

klondike solitaire turn 1 vs turn 3

In Solitaire, “Turn 1” means drawing one card at a time from the Stockpile pile. “Turn 3” means drawing three cards and only being able to play the top one.

This changes the game in several ways. Turn 1 offers more flexibility, making it easier for beginners to win. Turn 3 presents fewer options and requires more forward thinking.

You may need to cycle through the Stockpile pile multiple times to reach the card you want.

Turn 3 Rules and Card Movement

In Turn 3, cards are drawn from the Stockpile pile in sets of three. Only the top card is playable. If you can’t use it, draw again to cycle through the deck.

Cards in the Tableau (the seven columns) must be stacked in alternating colors and descending order. For example, a 6♣ can be placed on a 7♦.

Only Kings can move into empty Tableau columns. The goal is to build each Foundation pile by suit, from Ace to King.

Use the Undo button if you want to try a different move. If you get stuck, the Hint button can help suggest a play.

Klondike Turn 3 Scoring (Standard vs. Vegas)

Klondike Turn 3 offers two scoring modes. Standard is relaxed and straightforward. Vegas adds light pressure by tracking virtual dollars.

Moving a card to the Foundation:

  • Standard: +10 points
  • Vegas: +$5

Flipping a face-down card:

  • Standard: +5 points
  • Vegas: No scoring

Recycling the Stockpile:

  • Standard: -100 points
  • Vegas: -$52 (after the first pass through the deck)

Choose Standard for casual play or Vegas for added challenge.

Klondike Turn 3 Strategy and Tips

Klondike Turn 3 requires careful planning because you can’t always play the card you want right away. These tips will help you make better decisions.

Reveal Tableau Cards First

Start by uncovering face-down cards in longer Tableau columns. Revealing more cards gives you flexibility, new moves, and a clearer path to the Foundation.

Use Empty Columns Carefully

Only Kings can be placed into empty Tableau columns. Avoid clearing a space unless you have a playable King ready to place immediately.

Plan Around the Stockpile Pile Order

Since only the top three drawn cards are playable, watch the card order and think ahead before cycling through the Stockpile pile again.

Use Undo and Hint When Stuck

If you’re unsure, use the Undo button to test another move or try the Hint button for gentle guidance on your next step.

How Hard Is Turn 3? Win Rate and Difficulty

Turn 3 is more compolex than Turn 1 because you can only play one of the three drawn cards. It requires more planning and patience.

Studies show the average win rate for Turn 3 is about 11%, compared to 33% for Turn 1. Some games can’t be won, but skill improves your chances over time.

If you're new to Solitaire, try Turn 1 first, then move up to Turn 3 for a deeper challenge.

Play Klondike Solitaire Turn 3 Anywhere

Solitaire.com makes it easy to enjoy Klondike Turn 3 anywhere you play. The game runs smoothly on phones, tablets, laptops, and desktop browsers. There’s no download required and no account needed.

The layout adjusts automatically to your screen, whether you're using a large monitor or a small mobile device. All controls, dragging, clicking, and tapping work naturally with touchscreens or a mouse.

Prefer apps? Solitaire.com is also available as a free mobile app on iOS and Android. You can play offline, customize your game theme, and even track progress with Daily Challenges.

Ready to Challenge Yourself with Turn 3 Solitaire?

Klondike Solitaire Turn 3 offers a more challenging, thoughtful version of the classic game. With fewer playable cards and more strategy, it’s ideal for players who enjoy planning. Solitaire.com lets you play free in your browser or on mobile, with helpful features like Undo, Hint, and Daily Challenges.

Ready for a new challenge? Try Turn 3 today.

FAQs – Klondike Solitaire Turn 3

What is Turn 3 in Solitaire?

Turn 3 means drawing three cards at once from the Stockpile pile and only playing the top card.

Is Klondike Turn 3 harder than Turn 1?

Yes. Turn 3 gives fewer playable options, requiring more planning and strategy than Turn 1 games.

Can I win every Turn 3 game?

No. Some games are unwinnable based on the initial layout, even with perfect moves and planning.

Is Solitaire a game of luck or skill?

It’s both. Luck affects the deal, but skill improves your chances through smart decisions and timing.

What’s a good score in Solitaire?

In Standard mode, 500–700 points is strong. The perfect score is 745, but it's rarely possible.

How many times can I recycle the Stockpile pile?

Most versions allow unlimited recycling, but some limit passes to increase the difficulty and challenge.

Should I save empty columns for Kings?

Yes. Only Kings can fill empty Tableau columns, so plan carefully before clearing a space.