Klondike Solitaire Rules Explained

Understanding Klondike Solitaire

Klondike is the most well-known version of Solitaire. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the rules and gameplay mechanics.

Game Setup

Deal seven piles of cards from left to right, with each pile containing one more card than the previous. The top card of each pile should be face-up. The remaining cards form the stock pile.

Moving Cards

Cards in the tableau must be arranged in descending order (King to Ace) and alternate between red and black suits. You can move single cards or groups of properly sequenced cards between tableau piles.

Foundation Piles

Build four foundation piles above the tableau, one for each suit. Start with aces and build up to kings. The game is won when all cards are moved to the foundation piles in the correct order.

Drawing Cards

When you can't make any more moves, draw cards from the stock pile. Different variations allow drawing one or three cards at a time. Cycle through the stock pile as many times as needed.