How to win more games of Klondike solitaire
· 2 min read
Seven habits that turn more deals into wins, the Draw 1 versus Draw 3 question, and why some deals simply can't be won.
Klondike is the solitaire most people grew up with: seven columns, four foundations, a stock to draw from. It's mostly a game of patience, but a few habits make a surprising difference to how many deals you win.
1. Uncover face-down cards first
The cards you can't see are the problem. Whenever you have a choice, make the move that turns over a hidden card in the columns. Moves that just shuffle face-up cards around can wait.
2. Start with the biggest columns
The rightmost columns hide the most cards (up to six face down). Freeing them early opens up the most options for the rest of the game.
3. Don't empty a column without a King to put in it
Only a King, or a run starting with one, can go into an empty column. An empty column with no King ready is wasted. If you have the choice of which King, pick the one whose colour fits the Queen you can see coming.
4. Play from the columns before the stock
The stock isn't going anywhere: you can turn it over as often as you like. The columns are where the hidden cards are, so use a stock card only when it helps unlock a column.
5. Don't rush cards to the foundations
Aces and 2s should go up straight away. After that, think twice: a red 5 on a foundation can't hold the black 4 you might need to move later. Keep low cards in the columns while they're useful there.
6. Think about colour
If you have two black 7s to choose from for a red 6, choose the one that frees the more useful card underneath.
7. Use Hint when you're stuck, not before
Hint shows you a legal move, not the answer. It's best for those moments when you're sure you've missed something.
Draw 1 or Draw 3?
Draw 1 turns one card from the stock at a time, so you see every card on every pass. It's relaxed and most deals can be won. Draw 3 turns three and only the top one is playable, so the order you take cards in matters, and it's a lot harder. On Blibzz you choose every deal; solving a Draw 3 game earns the Three's Company trophy.
Some deals can't be won
It's worth knowing: a fair number of Klondike deals are impossible however you play them, especially on Draw 3. If you've tried everything, it's not you. Deal again.
Trophies to aim for
Solitaire on Blibzz is free play (no coins in or out) but every solved deal earns XP. Beyond Three's Company, there's Quick Hands for a solve under four minutes and No Takebacks for a solve without undo.