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Learn the rules of FreeCell

A small practice goal

Use the rule sheet as a reference. Select a face-up card and then the destination pile or Empty slot. Use another round to revisit a decision.

Aim for this result

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear. Treat this as a chance to practise one rule.

The steps to play

  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. Move exposed cards onto suit foundations in the stated rank order.
  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. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer. Treat this as a chance to practise one rule.

Put the rules into context

With two empty cells and no spare empty column, a group of at most three cards can move together. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

Check this before moving on

Before making a move, check the cards in view. Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

Common questions

What is the aim?

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Treat this as a chance to practise one rule. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

How do I use the controls?

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. Look at the complete hand before deciding. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

Which format is available?

One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering. Look at the complete hand before deciding. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

What should I check before a move?

Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. For a calm first round, focus on one decision. Use another round to revisit a decision.

Can you give an example?

With two empty cells and no spare empty column, a group of at most three cards can move together. Begin with the objective. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

What completes a round?

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Begin with the objective. Check the relevant controls before continuing.

Which controls should I use?

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. A clear plan starts with the current position. Check the relevant controls before continuing.

Which version is played here?

One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering. For a calm first round, focus on one decision. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

Does play involve an account or cash?

No. Play is free, without registration, deposits, bets or cash prizes. Treat this as a chance to practise one rule. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

What completes a round?

Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Look at the complete hand before deciding. Check the relevant controls before continuing.