About the game
Klondike Solitaire is the classic single-player card game played with a standard 52-card deck. You arrange cards in seven columns (tableau) by alternating colours in descending order (e.g., red 6 on black 7). The goal is to build four foundation piles, one for each suit, from Ace to King.
Also known simply as "Solitaire" (because it was the default game on Windows for decades), Klondike has been played since the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s. The game balances skill and luck, and the satisfaction of flipping the last King is universally recognised.
How to play
- Seven columns are dealt face-down (increasing from 1 to 7 cards). The top card of each column is face-up.
- Move cards between columns by alternating colours and descending in rank (e.g., red 5 on black 6).
- Build foundation piles in the top-right corner: Ace, then 2, 3, 4... up to King, all of the same suit.
- Flip cards from the stock pile when you run out of moves. Win by filling all four foundations.
Controls
| Move card | Click and drag, or click a card to auto-move it |
| Flip stock | Click the face-down stock pile |
| Undo | Click the undo button or press Ctrl+Z |
Five beginner tips
1. Always reveal face-down cards
Turning a face-down card face-up is always more valuable than moving an already-visible card. Prioritise reveals.
2. Build foundations gradually
Don't rush cards to the foundation. Keeping low cards on the tableau gives you more flexibility for building sequences.
3. Don't empty columns casually
An empty column is a powerful asset — you can place any King there. Don't waste it on a low card.
4. Use the undo button
Solitaire rewards experimentation. Try a move, see if it helps, and undo if it doesn't.
5. Play the stock pile last
Drawing from the stock adds a new card to the tableau. Always exhaust your current options first.
Why you'll like it
Klondike Solitaire is the definition of a relaxing puzzle. No opponents, no timer, no pressure — just you and the cards. The game rewards patience and planning, and the satisfaction of a clean sweep is unmatched.
Frequently asked questions
Is every game winnable?
Not every deal is winnable, but most are with optimal play. The game randomises deals each time.
Can I undo moves?
Yes — the undo button lets you reverse any number of moves.
Does it work on phones?
Yes. Tap to select cards and tap the destination to move them.
Game credit: Open-source Klondike Solitaire implementation. MIT licence by scarolan.