THE PLAYBOOK · SOLOHB
FreeCell: what to know before playing
Start FreeCell by looking at the playing area and its controls. Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering.
Practice with a purpose
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your objective
Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. The example below illustrates a decision.
The order of play
- Build down in alternating colours; four cells each hold one card. Empty columns accept any legal group.
- Select a face-up card and then the destination pile or Empty slot.
- Use foundations where available; full Spider or Scorpion runs clear automatically.
- Undo reverses a choice. New deal shuffles again.
Making selections and moves
Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
A closer look at one example
With two empty cells and no spare empty column, a group of at most three cards can move together. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Verify the rule before continuing.
One detail worth checking
Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
More answers before you play
As a new player, what is the goal of FreeCell?
The key detail is this: Build four suit foundations from ace to king.
For this browser game, how do I control FreeCell?
For clarity: Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain FreeCell?
For clarity: With two empty cells and no spare empty column, a group of at most three cards can move together.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in FreeCell?
Keep this in mind: Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy.
For my first round, what format does FreeCell offer?
Keep this in mind: One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering.
For this browser game, which play mode does FreeCell use?
The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.