Dogmelon Solitaire
Klondike Solitaire
Sometimes called by the generic name 'Solitaire' (eg Microsoft's Solitaire is actually Klondike Solitaire). This is probably the most widely known solitaire game in the world, so is naturally a favourite. Klondike Solitaire involves a fair amount of luck, but there is still some skill involved. The success rate is moderate.
Aim:
The aim of Klondike Solitaire is to build ascending suit sequences, in the foundation zone.
How to Play:
The opening tableau has:
- 7 manoeuvre stacks, of increasing length
- 4 foundation stacks, and
- the talon.
In the manoeuvre zone, form descending sequences of alternate color. Multiple cards forming a run can be moved at once.
At any time, flip cards from the talon. Where possible, move these cards into the manoeuvre zone, or directly into the foundation zone. If, during the course of play, a manoeuvre stack becomes empty, only a King can be moved onto it.
You may cycle through the talon an unlimited number of times.
Classic Solitaire comes with two variations on Klondike Solitaire: Draw One and Draw Three. This refers to how many cards are flipped from the talon at a time.
Strategy:
To win Klondike Solitaire it is necessary to expose all the face-down cards in the manoeuvre zone. Therefore, when facing a choice between moving a card from the talon waste, or a card from the manoeuvre zone, in general choose the card from the manoeuvre zone.
Don't rush cards up to the foundation when they may still be useful in general play. In general they can be moved up when both cards of one less rank and alternate colour are available.
Example:
Suppose that the initial deal looks like this:
The following moves are possible:
- Ace of Spades can be moved immediately to the foundation.
- 10 of Spades onto the Jack of Diamonds.
This will expose more cards, which may also be moved. When you are ready, flip cards from talon:
You can now keep cycling through the talon, playing cards into the manoevre zone or to the foundation as required.