FreeCell deals all fifty-two cards face up into eight columns, then hands you four “free cells” — temporary parking spots that turn every deal into a solvable puzzle. Nearly every game can be won; the only question is whether you can see the path.
That makes FreeCell the most skill-driven solitaire there is. No hidden cards, no stock pile, no excuses — just you and the deal.
How to Play FreeCell Solitaire by Yourself
- Deal all 52 cards face up into eight columns (four of 7, four of 6).
- Build columns downward in alternating colors, exactly like Klondike.
- Use the four free cells to hold any single card temporarily.
- Send Aces to the foundations and build each suit up to the King.
- Move runs between columns — the number of cards you can move at once depends on how many free cells and empty columns you have.
- Win by completing all four foundations.
Rules of FreeCell Solitaire
- All cards are dealt face up; there is no stock or waste pile.
- Each free cell holds exactly one card, retrievable at any time.
- Tableau columns build down in alternating colors.
- Any card may start an empty column.
- You can move a run of N+1 cards where N is the number of empty free cells (doubled for each empty column).
- Foundations build up in suit from Ace to King.
Winning Strategies for FreeCell Solitaire
- Keep free cells empty. Full cells are the number-one cause of lost games.
- Hunt for the Aces and 2s first and plan the shortest route to release them.
- Empty a short column early — an empty column is more powerful than any free cell.
- Don’t automatically send every card to the foundations; you may need low cards to maneuver.
- Think three moves ahead before touching a free cell — parking is easy, un-parking needs a plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every FreeCell deal winnable?
Almost. Of the classic million numbered deals, all but a handful are provably solvable — which is why FreeCell is considered the fairest solitaire of all.
Can I play FreeCell alone?
Yes, FreeCell is a pure single-player game. This version is free, browser-based, and needs no download or account.
Why can I only move a few cards at once?
You are really moving cards one at a time through free cells. The “supermove” size equals (free cells + 1), doubled for each empty column — the game just automates it.
Is FreeCell harder than Klondike?
It is deeper but fairer. Klondike hides cards, so luck can beat you; in FreeCell everything is visible, so a lost game is almost always a puzzle you can retry and solve.
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