Solitaire Rules

Q: Where should a beginner start?

Klondike is the easiest starting point because it clearly demonstrates the basic mechanics of tableau columns and foundations.

Q: Are all solitaire games built by suit?

No. Depending on the game, the goal may involve foundations, sequences, or removing cards under special conditions.

Most solitaire games share the same core logic: a stock, a waste, working tableau columns and foundations where the cards end up. Below is a quick rundown of the basic rules you'll meet most often in the classic layouts.

The Basic Parts of a Layout

The stock deals new cards into play when the board runs out of options.
The waste holds cards already turned over, which can return to play under the rules of the specific game.
The tableau columns are where you rearrange cards and prepare them for the foundations.
The foundations are usually built by suit in ascending order, from ace to king.

Rules You'll See Most Often

In Klondike, tableau cards are placed in descending order with alternating colors. In FreeCell the free cells are key, while in Spider you build complete sequences. In Pyramid, cards are removed in pairs that add up to 13. Despite the differences, the idea is the same: clear the board and finish the deal with logical moves.

FAQ

Where should a beginner start?

Klondike is the easiest entry point: it's intuitive, familiar to most players, and a great demonstration of how tableau columns and foundations work.

Are all solitaire games built by suit?

No. In some games the main goal is foundations by suit; in others it's complete sequences or removing cards from the board under special conditions.