THE PLAYBOOK · SJBOB
How to play FreeCell
Open FreeCell, check the instructions and begin a round. Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Check the rule that explains your first action. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering.
Read before acting
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
Build four suit foundations from ace to king. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Step by step
- Build down in alternating colours; four cells each hold one card. Empty columns accept any legal group.
- Select a face-up card and then the destination pile or Empty slot.
- Use foundations where available; full Spider or Scorpion runs clear automatically.
- 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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
A useful example
With two empty cells and no spare empty column, a group of at most three cards can move together. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
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. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Common questions
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of FreeCell?
Build four suit foundations from ace to king.
For this browser game, how do I control FreeCell?
Here is the relevant explanation: Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown.
For my first round, what example helps explain FreeCell?
Keep this in mind: With two empty cells and no spare empty column, a group of at most three cards can move together.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in FreeCell?
Keep this in mind: Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy.
While learning, what format does FreeCell offer?
The key detail is this: One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering.
As a new player, which play mode does FreeCell use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.