NEW
FreeCell
A strategic card game that requires skill and planning
Card4.9
Ancient Spider
♠︎Beginner
Time0:00
Moves0
Score0
Runs0/8
Tap a card to auto-move it, or drag it onto a column · Ctrl+Z Undo · H Hint · D Deal · N New game
Game Guide
Spider Solitaire Guide, Rules, and Tips
Spider Solitaire is a two-deck patience game played across ten tableau columns. Your goal is to build eight complete runs from King down to Ace in a single suit and clear them off the table. It rewards patience and planning more than luck, and a single game can take anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour.
How to Play
- Only face-up cards can be moved. A card can be placed on any card exactly one rank higher, such as a 7 on an 8.
- A descending run of the same suit can be moved together as a group.
- An empty column accepts any card or run.
- Clicking the stock deals one new card onto every column, but only when no column is empty.
- A complete King-to-Ace run is removed automatically; clear all eight to win.
Strategy and Tips
- Turn over face-down cards as early as possible; hidden cards are what block most games.
- An empty column is the most valuable resource on the board, so avoid filling it without a plan.
- Keep long same-suit runs together in one column instead of splitting them. New players can start with the 1-suit mode, then move up to 2 or 4 suits.
- Before dealing from the stock, check every column for a useful move; each deal buries ten cards.
Controls
MouseTouch
Drag and drop cards or runs with the mouse or your finger, or tap a card to move it automatically. Click the stock pile to deal. Undo and hints are available when you get stuck.
Background
Spider Solitaire dates back to at least 1949, and it became one of the most played computer card games after it was bundled with Microsoft Windows. The name refers to the spider’s eight legs, matching the eight runs you need to complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every Spider Solitaire deal winnable?
Not every deal can be won, but most are with careful play. Using undo to explore different lines is a good way to learn.
Why can’t I deal new cards?
The stock can only be dealt when every column holds at least one card. Fill any empty column first.
What is the most important Spider strategy?
Create and protect empty columns. Our Spider Solitaire guide explains how to use them to reorganize long runs.