How to Play Spider Solitaire

THE PLAYBOOK · COEYSHOES

The Spider Solitaire playbook

Take a moment with Spider Solitaire before moving to another game. Complete eight same-suit king-to-ace runs. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Two decks, one/two/four suits; fill every column before a ten-card stock deal. Free solo play, no wagering.

Something to practise

Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Use the example to check your reasoning.

What counts as success

Complete eight same-suit king-to-ace runs. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Check the rules when you are unsure.

A walkthrough of the rules

1. Build down by rank. Only descending same-suit groups move together. Empty columns accept any movable 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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

Try this example

A mixed-suit descending stack cannot move as one group. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Take a moment to compare.

Where a round can go wrong

Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.

Answers about the rules and controls