Solitaire is a game that has been around for centuries, and it remains one of the most popular card games in the world today. The game can be played by one person or multiple players; however, most people play it alone to challenge themselves, unwind, or pass the time.
There are many variations of solitaire, including the classic Klondike solitaire, FreeCell solitaire, Pyramid solitaire, Spider solitaire, and TriPeaks solitaire. Though each variation is unique, they all require strategic thinking, patience, and some luck to win.
One of the appealing things about solitaire is that it can be played anywhere, anytime, using just a deck of cards or a computer/tablet/smartphone. Despite its simplicity, there are several secret moves that can make the difference between winning and losing at solitaire.
Reverse Play/Undo Move
The reverse play or undo move option is a common secret move in solitaire. It allows you to undo your previous moves if you realize that you have made a mistake or if you want to try different strategies to win the game.
For example, suppose you have moved a card from one column to another, and you later realize that it would have been better to leave it where it was. Instead of starting a new game, you can simply click on the undo button or press CTRL+Z on your keyboard to reverse that particular move.
Undoing a move can be especially helpful when you’re stuck and don’t see any possible moves. You can undo several moves until you get back to the point where you can continue playing.
Empty Tableau Slot
Clearing up space on the board is essential in solitaire because it provides more opportunities to move cards and complete the game. Sometimes, to create room for new cards, you may need to move a card to an empty tableau slot.
An empty tableau slot is a blank column on the solitaire board where no cards are present. When you move a card to an empty slot, you create more space for other cards. For example, if you have an Ace of Hearts in one column and a Two of Hearts in another column, and there is a blank tableau slot, you can move the Two of Hearts to that slot and then place the Ace of Hearts on top of it.
However, it’s essential to consider your moves carefully when using this secret move because not all cards can be moved to an empty tableau slot. Sometimes moving a card to an empty slot can block certain cards from being moved, thereby hindering your chances of winning the game.
Hidden Cards
In some solitaire variations, there are hidden cards that can be uncovered if you make certain moves. Uncovering these hidden cards can provide new opportunities for gameplay, making it easier to complete the game successfully.
For instance, in Klondike solitaire, the card at the bottom of each tableau pile is hidden until you move its top card. Once you move the top card, the hidden card is revealed, and you can use it in your gameplay.
To uncover hidden cards in solitaire, you need to make specific moves. For example, you may need to clear a tableau pile or move a card from one column to another to reveal a hidden card. This requires careful planning and attention to detail.
Tips for Winning at Solitaire
Though secret moves can help you win at solitaire, they’re not enough on their own. Winning at solitaire requires strategic thinking, patience, and a bit of luck. Here are some tips to help you win at solitaire:
Start by revealing hidden cards: In most solitaire variations, hidden cards could be the key to winning the game. Try to uncover them as soon as possible, so you don’t limit your options later on.
- Build up your foundations: Building up your foundations is essential in solitaire. Make sure to start with aces and then work your way up to kings.
- Clear up space: Create space on the board by moving cards around, clearing up tableau piles, and using empty slots whenever possible. Doing so will give you more options and make it easier to complete the game.
- Use secret moves wisely: Only use secret moves when necessary, and be careful not to block yourself from further moves later on.
- Plan ahead: The key to winning at solitaire is to plan ahead. Think about each move carefully and consider how it will impact future moves.
- Use the Stock pile wisely: In Klondike solitaire, players draw cards from the stockpile when there’s no more move available. However, drawing cards from the stockpile indiscriminately could lead to blocking certain cards later in the game. Instead, plan ahead and try to utilize the stockpile strategically.
- Move sequences of cards: When moving cards from one tableau column to another, try to move a sequence of cards rather than individual cards. This will open up more space on the board and provide more options for future moves.
- Keep your options open: Try to postpone moving cards to foundations for as long as possible. This will keep your options open and give you more freedom to move cards around the tableau columns.
- Memorize the layout: After playing a few games of solitaire, you’ll start to notice patterns in the layout of the cards. By memorizing these patterns, you can improve your chances of winning by anticipating possible moves and planning ahead.
- Don’t give up too soon: Solitaire is a game of patience and persistence. Sometimes, it may seem like there are no more moves available, but if you look closely, you may be able to find a hidden card or a sequence of cards that can open up new possibilities.
Most Popular Solitaire Variations
The classic or standard solitaire game is also called Klondike or Patience. This is the most popular form of solitaire and you may find it pre-installed on your computer. Other popular solitaire games include:
- Canfield Solitaire: Canfield Solitaire is a challenging variation of the classic game of solitaire. It is played with a standard deck of 52 cards and the objective is to build four foundation piles in ascending order from Ace to King. Cards can be moved between tableau columns, but only one card at a time. The top card of each tableau column is available for play on the foundation or on other tableau columns. The remaining cards are placed face down in the stock pile, which can be drawn from if there are no more moves available in the tableau. The game is won when all cards have been moved to the foundation piles. Canfield Solitaire requires careful planning and strategy, making it a favorite among experienced solitaire players. Play our Canfield Solitaire here.
- Tripeaks Solitaire: Tripeaks Solitaire is a popular variant of the classic game of solitaire. It is played with a single deck of 52 cards, and the goal is to clear all cards from the playing field by collecting cards that are either one rank above or below the upturned card at the bottom of the screen. Players can select the cards that are available for play on the tableau as long as they follow the ascending or descending order rule. If no moves are possible, the player can draw cards from the deck. The game is won when all cards have been removed from the tableau. Tripeaks Solitaire is a fast-paced game which requires players to think quickly and strategically.
- Forty Thieves Solitaire: Forty Thieves Solitaire is another popular variant of the classic solitaire game. It is played with two decks of 52 cards, and like many other solitaire games, the goal is to move all the cards to the foundation piles in ascending order by suit. The game has a tableau consisting of ten tableau piles, each containing four cards face-up, and the remaining cards are placed in the stock pile. Forty Thieves Solitaire – Play online card game.
Conclusion
Solitaire is a game that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for centuries. Whether you’re playing with a physical deck of cards or on your computer or smartphone, there are several secret moves you can use to win the game.
The reverse play option allows you to undo your previous moves, while the empty tableau slot lets you create more space on the board. Hidden cards can provide new opportunities for gameplay, making it easier to complete the game successfully.
To win at solitaire, you need to use these secret moves wisely while also employing strategic thinking, patience, and a bit of luck. By following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of winning and become a solitaire master in no time!