How to Play FreeCell

THE PLAYBOOK · SJZYCGG

How to play FreeCell

Open FreeCell, check the instructions and begin a round. Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Use the example below to understand a decision.

One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering.

Try a deliberate move

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Check the rules when you are unsure.

Step by step

1. Build down in alternating colours; four cells each hold one card. Empty columns accept any legal group.
2. Select a face-up card and then the destination pile or Empty slot.
3. Use foundations where available; full Spider or Scorpion runs clear automatically.
4. Undo reverses a choice. New deal shuffles again.

Controls

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A useful 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. Check the stated objective.

Watch out for this

Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Common questions