Almost everyone knows the classic solitaire game Klondike. It is the most played solitaire game around the world. Other well-known solitaire games include Spider, FreeCell, Golf, and Pyramid. These games are often found on solitaire apps, websites, and in books about card games. While these familiar games are fun, many other solitaire games are less well known but just as enjoyable. In this article, I will introduce some solitaire games that are quite obscure yet worth trying. These games offer new twists and challenges that can make your solitaire experience fresh and exciting.
Not all lesser-known solitaire games are worth your time. Some remain obscure because they are not very fun or are too complicated without rewarding gameplay. However, I set out to find hidden solitaire gems that are genuinely enjoyable. After trying many games, I selected a dozen solitaire games that you have probably never heard of before, but which I found fun to play and return to. These games fall into two groups: builder games and non-builder games. Builder games involve creating sequences or building foundations in certain orders, while non-builder games focus more on puzzle-like play or different objectives. Let’s explore these fascinating solitaire variants.
Builder Solitaire Games Worth Trying
Ascension
Ascension is a very unique builder solitaire game that I have only found in one app called Allgood Solitaire. It comes from a book titled The Complete Book of Solitaire by Pierre Crepeau. Ascension uses two decks of cards and starts with a row of eight Aces acting as the foundations. Below this row are four rows of eight face-up cards each. You can build down in the tableau, but only in alternating colors, and there is a special rule that cards can only be moved to the row directly above them.
This movement restriction creates a puzzle where cards must “ascend” through the rows to reach the foundations. Empty spaces in the tableau must be immediately filled from the row beneath, and spaces in the lowest row are filled from the stock automatically. Because of these rules, you need to carefully plan your moves so cards can pass through the upper rows to reach the foundations. For example, placing some threes in the top row allows twos to move up through them.
The Allgood Solitaire app offers a variation where empty spaces don’t need to be filled immediately, making the game more flexible. In this version, it’s best to keep at least one space free in each row, so you can maneuver cards more freely and have a high chance of winning. Ascension’s card movement style makes it feel quite different from traditional builder solitaire games and very satisfying to play.
Fission
Fission is a solitaire game with an unusual theme inspired by atomic splitting, created during the 1940s when scientists were studying nuclear fission. You start with seven columns of overlapping cards, each with seven cards. The deal also places three cards as foundations, with a fourth foundation starting empty. You can move any available (uncovered) card to the foundations, matching suit but ignoring value.
What makes Fission special is what happens when you move a card from a column: the column splits into two parts. When a column is reduced to a single card, that card becomes a new foundation, and touching foundations merge. The goal is to move all cards onto the foundations.
Fission may sound confusing in words, but playing it helps to understand its unique flow. It is available in the Solitaire Forever program. Your chances of winning are quite good if you plan moves carefully, avoiding the trapping needed cards. The atomic splitting theme adds a fascinating touch, making Fission a rewarding and distinct solitaire experience.
Flamboyant
Flamboyant is another rare builder solitaire game from Pierre Crepeau’s book and is available on the Allgood Solitaire app. Its layout consists of 17 groups arranged as small pyramids, each with one face-up card on top of two face-down cards. The final special card, called the “Solitaire,” sits at the lower right. Foundations are built up by suits from Ace to King, and cards in the tableau can be built down by alternating colors. Face-down cards are flipped when they become uncovered.
Empty spaces in Flamboyant cannot usually be filled, except for the space left by the Solitaire card, which can be filled once by a King and any sequence placed on it. This creates a stylish and somewhat flamboyant look, fitting the name.
The game is fairly easy to win, though some luck with the face-down cards is involved. A variation with all cards face-up exists for more strategic play. This open version lets you plan moves better and win more often. While not deeply strategic, Flamboyant offers a fresh take on builder solitaire games and makes a pleasant diversion.
Four Winds
Four Winds likely descends from a simple solitaire called Carpet. It uses a tableau of 16 cards, with four foundations starting with Aces. Besides, the foundations are four cards each, matching suits. You try to build each foundation up from Ace to King while working through the deck. When you play cards from the tableau, spaces created can only be filled by cards matching the foundation suit.
You get one redeal of the deck. The suit-matching rule for filling spaces adds challenge and strategy, as you must plan carefully which cards to move to keep your options open. It’s often best to place lower-ranked cards in the tableau spaces to avoid blocking progress. Four Winds is available on Allgood Solitaire and other platforms.
With good play, Four Winds is a fun and winnable game. The combination of suit restrictions and a redeal means you have to think ahead while enjoying a relaxing game.
Labyrinth
Labyrinth is a single-deck builder solitaire with a spatial twist. It is found on apps like BVS Solitaire. The game starts with four aces as foundations and an initial row of eight cards. Each time you draw cards, you draw eight cards to form new rows below the existing ones, similar to Spider solitaire.
Cards cannot be moved within the tableau, but you can play cards from the top or bottom row, or if there is a gap above or below a card. Importantly, gaps are not filled except in the top row. These gaps create the labyrinth-like pattern that gives the game its name.
Labyrinth is difficult to win because you need to play low cards early to create more gaps and opportunities. Winning requires good luck and skill, and games are usually short. The sense of opening paths in the tableau is satisfying. A two-deck variant called Babette offers a similar feel but with no gaps.
Roaming Proils
Roaming Proils is a member of the Fan solitaire family. It is also from Crepeau’s book and available on Allgood Solitaire. The entire deck is dealt into 17 fans of three cards each, with two face-down and one face-up. There is a reserve pile for Kings.
The main twist is that you can only move cards onto cards of the same value, forming groups called “proils.” You can place up to three cards of the same value together. This rule creates an interesting puzzle as one card of a value can get stuck unless you play the corresponding proil cards to the foundations.
The reserve pile for Kings helps prevent Kings from blocking progress. An open version of this game with all cards face-up increases the chances of winning and adds strategy. Roaming Proils offers a fresh, challenging take on fan solitaire games and can become a favorite for fans of that style.
Non-Builder Solitaire Games You Should Try
Crossword
Crossword solitaire is unlike traditional builder games. The aim is to create a crossword-style layout in a 7×7 grid, starting with one card in the center. You place cards adjacent to existing cards horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Jacks, Queens, and Kings are set aside at the start and act like black squares in a crossword, placed face-down without touching each other vertically or horizontally.
The goal is to make the sums of the card values in each row and column add up to even numbers. This creates a fun tactical puzzle where placement choices matter a lot.
The rules are simple, but the challenge is surprising. Crossword solitaire is rewarding and appeals especially to players who like working with numbers. It was first published by George F. Hervey, and later variations were made easier by Peter Arnold. Good digital implementations can be found in solitaire apps like Solitaire Forever.
Solitaire Games You’ve Never Heard of Before Which You Should Try
Continuing from the first part, where we explored some lesser-known but intriguing solitaire games, this second part will introduce more unique solitaire games that are worth trying. These games vary in style, including both builder and non-builder types, and each offers a fresh experience compared to the classic Klondike or Spider solitaire games. If you enjoy discovering new solitaire challenges, the following games will expand your horizons with their innovative rules and interesting gameplay.
Non-Builder Solitaire Games
Dice
Dice is a solitaire game that is truly unlike the usual card-building games. Instead of focusing on building sequences or suits, Dice involves a scoring mechanic inspired by rolling dice, but using cards instead. The game begins with a layout of seven cards arranged in a row. You draw cards one at a time from the stock and place them either on the tableau or the discard pile, depending on certain conditions. The unique aspect is the scoring: cards are valued as dice faces (with face cards counting as six), and you score points when you complete specific combinations resembling dice rolls.
What makes Dice a fascinating solitaire game is its blend of chance and strategy. Unlike builder games where you carefully place cards in sequence, Dice forces you to balance your moves to maximize your score. You need to decide which cards to keep and which to discard while aiming to hit scoring targets. The unpredictability of the draw and the tactical choices required make Dice a refreshing change from traditional solitaire. Though it lacks the visual appeal of some games, it is perfect for those who enjoy puzzles involving numbers and probability.
Thieves of Egypt
Thieves of Egypt is an atmospheric solitaire game set against an ancient Egyptian backdrop. The game uses a special deck and has a unique tableau layout resembling a pyramid, but the gameplay is distinct from pyramid solitaire. Cards are arranged face-down except for a few at the bottom. The objective is to steal the treasures, represented by cards, by uncovering and playing them to the foundation piles.
This game is notable for its thematic storytelling and the way the rules encourage careful planning. You cannot simply flip cards blindly, because every move affects which cards become available next. The layers of face-down cards add an element of mystery and suspense, as you gradually reveal what lies beneath. Although the game is challenging, it is rewarding when you successfully “steal” all treasures by playing cards in the right order. Thieves of Egypt appeals to players who enjoy solitaire games with a strong theme and a more thoughtful pace.
Napoleon at St Helena
This solitaire game has an interesting historical theme named after Napoleon’s exile. Napoleon at St Helena is a two-deck game with a layout that starts with four foundations of aces and four foundations of kings. The challenge is to build the aces up by suit and the kings down by suit, simultaneously. The tableau consists of eight piles with specific rules on how cards can be moved and built.
What makes Napoleon at St Helena stand out is its dual foundation building, which requires careful management of both upward and downward sequences. The restrictions on moving cards and filling spaces add to the challenge, requiring good foresight and planning. It is more strategic than the standard solitaire games and appeals to players who enjoy a puzzle that tests patience and logic. Winning this game gives a strong sense of accomplishment because it demands both attention and strategy.
Scorpion
Scorpion is a solitaire game somewhat related to Spider, but with a twist that makes it quite distinct. It uses a single deck and starts with seven columns of cards, with some cards face-up and others face-down. The main goal is to build sequences down in the same suit within the tableau until all cards are arranged in four sequences of thirteen cards each.
Unlike Spider, where you can move sequences freely, Scorpion limits moves to sequences that are face-up and allows only certain cards to be moved. The challenge is to uncover the face-down cards by strategic moves and use the stockpile wisely. Scorpion can be quite tough to win, but is extremely satisfying when successful. It is a favorite for those who like a game that tests their planning and sequencing skills.
Calculation
Calculation is a fascinating solitaire game centered on arithmetic progressions. Unlike many solitaire games focusing on suit or color, Calculation requires you to build four foundation piles starting with Ace, 2, 3, and 4, respectively, and then build up by increments of one, two, three, and four cards accordingly.
The unique nature of Calculation makes it appealing to those who enjoy number patterns and logical sequencing. You must decide when and where to place cards in the tableau so you can continue building the foundations in the correct sequence. The game requires both strategic planning and a good memory, as you keep track of the cards played and those still to come. Calculation offers a refreshing alternative to traditional solitaire games, with a strong emphasis on numerical order rather than suit or color.
Accordion
Accordion is a solitaire game that lives up to its name due to the way cards can be compressed and shifted together like an accordion fold. The objective is to compress the entire deck into one pile by moving cards onto each other if they share the same suit or rank, either one or three cards apart.
The gameplay is deceptively simple but highly strategic. Each move can open up or block future moves, so you need to think carefully before shifting cards. The game offers a high level of challenge as it’s quite rare to compress the whole deck, but even partial success is rewarding. Accordion appeals to players who enjoy puzzle-like solitaire games that involve spatial reasoning and forward thinking.
Why Try These Lesser-Known Solitaire Games?
Exploring lesser-known solitaire games broadens your appreciation for the creativity in card game design. While classics like Klondike or Spider are timeless, trying out games like Ascension, Fission, or Dice exposes you to different rule sets, challenges, and strategies. These games often require a different mindset, making them exciting and refreshing for solitaire enthusiasts looking to breathe k routine.
Many of these games can be found on specialized solitaire apps or within collections that aim to showcase unusual solitaire variations. Trying them out can help improve your overall card-playing skills, such as strategic planning, patience, and adaptability. Whether you enjoy building sequences, solving numerical puzzles, or experimenting with unique movement rules, there is something in this list for you.
Tips for Enjoying Obscure Solitaire Games
When trying out these solitaire games, it helps to approach them with an open mind and patience. Many lesser-known games have rules that might seem confusing at first, but as you play, their logic and strategy become clearer. Start by reading the rules carefully and then watch or play a few practice rounds to get familiar with the flow.
Some games reward careful planning over impulsive moves, so take your time to think through your options. Others rely more on luck, so don’t be discouraged by losses. Instead, focus on understanding the game’s unique mechanics. Over time, you’ll find that mastering these games brings a lot of satisfaction and adds variety to your solitaire experience.
Trying out these lesser-known solitaire games can be a delightful way to keep your mind sharp and entertained. They provide a fresh twist on the traditional card solitaire experience and can quickly become new favorites once you understand their nuances.
Solitaire Games You’ve Never Heard of Before Which You Should Try
Continuing our journey through fascinating and lesser-known solitaire games, this part will introduce even more solitaire variations that offer unique challenges and fresh gameplay experiences. While many people know classics like Klondike and FreeCell, there is a whole world of solitaire games with creative rules, different layouts, and interesting strategies. These games appeal to players looking for variety or something more challenging beyond the traditional formats.
More Unique Solitaire Games to Explore
Royal Rendezvous
Royal Rendezvous is a captivating solitaire game that stands out with its unusual setup and objective. It is played with a single deck, and the goal is to build eight foundation piles, starting from aces up to kings, all by suit. However, the tableau starts with a very specific layout: eight columns of cards, with only the top card visible in each.
What makes Royal Rendezvous special is the way cards move and how you uncover hidden cards. You can only move sequences if they are in descending order and of alternating colors, which is common in many solitaire games, but here the challenge lies in carefully managing the tableau columns and foundation building simultaneously. The game demands patience and thoughtful moves, and it’s rewarding when you finally complete the foundations, given the complexity of uncovering and freeing key cards.
Penguin Solitaire
Penguin is a lesser-known game that is somewhat similar to Spider Solitaire, but with its twist. It uses two decks, and the layout begins with ten tableau columns where cards can be built down regardless of suit, but only sequences of the same suit can be moved together. Foundations are built up by suits from ace to king.
The challenge in Penguin lies in maneuvering the tableau to free cards and build complete suit sequences. Unlike some solitaire games, you have a reserve pile to help, but the limited moves and need to think ahead make Penguin a strategic puzzle. It’s especially appealing to players who enjoy Spider solitaire but want a different twist with an added layer of complexity.
Royal Marriage
Royal Marriage is a solitaire game with a romantic theme but a serious challenge. The deck is arranged in a unique pattern resembling a marriage proposal, with the queen and king cards playing a special role. The goal is to build all cards onto the foundations by suit, starting from aces, but with particular attention paid to the royal cards.
This game is unique in how the queen and king cards are treated as key points for unlocking the tableau. Moves depend heavily on freeing these royal cards at the right time, requiring strategic planning and timing. Royal Marriage offers a fresh challenge for players who like games where timing and sequence are crucial to success.
Aces and Kings
Aces and Kings is a straightforward but interesting solitaire game involving two decks. The objective is to build eight foundations: four starting with aces going up by suit and four starting with kings going down by suit. The tableau is made up of ten columns, with cards dealt face down except for the top card of each column.
What makes Aces and Kings appealing is its balanced difficulty and the requirement to manage both ascending and descending sequences simultaneously. Players need to juggle uncovering hidden cards, moving cards between columns, and building on the foundations carefully. The dual foundation building style makes it more challenging than many single-deck games and offers a satisfying mix of luck and strategy.
Royal Cotillion
Royal Cotillion is a solitaire game that has a royal theme and involves a tableau of eight piles, where cards are initially dealt face down except the top card of each pile. The foundations start with aces, and the goal is to build up by suit from ace to king.
The gameplay centers around uncovering cards in the tableau and moving cards between piles to free the cards needed for foundation building. Moves must follow strict rules where cards can only be placed on piles in descending order and alternating colors. Royal Cotillion challenges players to carefully plan their moves and think ahead, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a strategic solitaire experience with a classic feel.
Calculation 2
Building upon the original Calculation solitaire game, Calculation 2 offers a more complex variation that adds layers of challenge. The core mechanic remains focused on building foundations with numerical progressions, but the increments and sequences are modified to increase difficulty.
Players must still build foundations starting from specific cards and follow arithmetic patterns. However, additional restrictions in Calculation 2 force players to be more deliberate in managing the tableau and stock. This variation is great for those who enjoyed the original Calculation but want a tougher test of their numerical sequencing skills and logical thinking.
Royal Parade
Royal Parade is a solitaire game with an elegant theme and a challenging layout. It uses a single deck and starts with eight columns in the tableau. The objective is to build foundations by suit from ace to king, but the way cards are moved in the tableau and between foundations is quite restricted.
One interesting feature of Royal Parade is that cards can only be moved one at a time, and sequences cannot be moved as a block. This restriction forces players to plan moves carefully and manage the tableau to avoid blocking necessary cards. The slow and methodical gameplay makes Royal Parade appealing to players who prefer a strategic, deliberate pace in solitaire games.
How These Games Enhance Solitaire Skills
Trying these less familiar solitaire games sharpens different skills that might not be as emphasized in traditional solitaire. Many of them require players to think several moves ahead, manage multiple sequences, or apply numerical patterns. This broadens problem-solving abilities and enhances patience and adaptability.
For example, games like Calculation and its variant Calculation 2 push players to use logical progression and math skills. Games such as Royal Rendezvous and Royal Cotillion emphasize strategic movement and uncovering hidden cards. Meanwhile, games like Penguin and Royal Parade require careful tableau management and thoughtful sequencing.
Exploring these games also helps keep solitaire fresh and exciting. Instead of falling into the routine of the same familiar card movements, players face new challenges that stimulate the mind in different ways. This variety can make solitaire not just a pastime but a brain workout and a source of continuous enjoyment.
Where to Find These Solitaire Variations
While these solitaire games are not as widely known or available on all platforms, many online solitaire collections and apps feature them. Specialized solitaire software often includes a wide range of games beyond the classics, and many free websites also host unusual solitaire variants for players to try.
Some solitaire apps allow players to download additional solitaire game packs that include these rare games. Additionally, there are websites and solitaire game collections that provide detailed rules and interactive play for these games. Exploring these sources will give you access to a diverse library of solitaire games and help you discover new favorites.
Expanding Your Solitaire Experience
Adding these lesser-known solitaire games to your rotation can greatly enrich your card game experience. Each game offers its flavor of challenge, requiring different strategies and mental skills. They also keep the gameplay engaging and prevent boredom from playing the same classic solitaire games repeatedly.
If you enjoy card games, take time to explore these unique solitaire variations. You might find a new favorite that challenges you in ways you never expected. Whether you prefer games focused on number patterns, strategic tableau management, or thematic storytelling, there is a solitaire game on this list that will fit your style.
Conclusion
Solitaire games have long been a beloved way to relax, challenge the mind, and pass the time. While classic versions like Klondike and FreeCell remain popular, exploring lesser-known solitaire variations opens up a world of fresh challenges and unique gameplay experiences. These games offer different rules, layouts, and strategic demands that can sharpen your problem-solving skills, improve patience, and keep your interest alive.
From the royal-themed games that require careful timing to the mathematically driven variations that test your sequencing ability, each solitaire variant brings something new to the table. Playing these games not only diversifies your solitaire repertoire but also enhances mental agility by encouraging you to think differently and adapt your strategies.
If you want to expand your enjoyment of card games, trying these unusual solitaire games is a great way to do so. They provide exciting alternatives to the traditional solitaire experience and can become your new favorites. Whether you play on a computer, phone, or with a physical deck of cards, diving into these solitaire challenges is both entertaining and rewarding.
In summary, embracing the wide variety of solitaire games available allows you to keep your gameplay fresh, stimulate your mind, and enjoy countless hours of engaging card play. So deal the cards, discover new rules, and enjoy the endless possibilities that solitaire has to offer.