How to Play Klondike Solitaire
Klondike Solitaire is the classic one-player card game that came pre-installed on every Windows computer since 1990 — making it arguably the most-played video game in history. The goal is to build four foundation piles, one for each suit, from Ace up to King. You achieve this by arranging cards in the tableau in descending order with alternating colors, gradually uncovering and freeing cards until all 52 make it to the foundations.
How to Play
The tableau has seven columns, with 1 to 7 cards each. Only the top card of each column is face-up. Build down in alternating colors (black on red, red on black). You can move single cards or sequences of face-up cards between columns. Empty columns can only be filled with a King (or a sequence starting with a King).
Click the stock pile to deal cards to the waste pile. In Draw-1 mode, one card is dealt at a time. In Draw-3, three are dealt but only the top is playable. Move cards from the waste to the tableau or directly to foundations. When you get an Ace, place it on a foundation, then build up in the same suit.
History & Origin
Klondike Solitaire gets its name from the Klondike region of Canada, where gold prospectors during the 1890s Klondike Gold Rush reportedly played the game in their tents. Microsoft included it in Windows 3.0 in 1990 primarily to teach users how to drag and drop with a mouse. The game's inclusion made it the most widely played computer game ever. It's estimated that more hours have been spent on Solitaire than any other game in computing history.
Strategy & Tips
- Always play Aces and Twos immediately. There's no reason to keep them in the tableau.
- Uncover face-down cards. Prioritize moves that reveal hidden cards, as they open new possibilities.
- Don't empty a column without a King. An empty column is wasted unless you have a King to fill it.
- Use Draw-1 for easier games. Draw-3 is the traditional "hard mode" and significantly reduces win rate.
FAQ
Is every Solitaire game winnable?
No. Roughly 80% of Klondike Solitaire games are theoretically winnable with perfect play in Draw-1 mode. In Draw-3, the rate drops to about 40%. Some deals are simply impossible regardless of skill.
What's the difference between Draw-1 and Draw-3?
Draw-1 turns over one stock card at a time, giving access to every card. Draw-3 turns over three, restricting access. Draw-3 is much harder and is the traditional casino/competitive version.
Play Klondike Solitaire free — no download, no ads interrupting gameplay. Drag cards, build foundations, and beat your best time.