THE PLAYBOOK · ZYCGLH
How to play FreeCell
Use a short break to learn the rhythm of FreeCell. Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Look at what changes after your first action. Begin with the solo mode shown on the page. Look at what changes after your first action.
One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering.
Build a steady rhythm
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. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Build four suit foundations from ace to king. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Keep the controls in easy reach.
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Check any mode label before starting.
A useful example
With two empty cells and no spare empty column, a group of at most three cards can move together. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Check the stated objective.
Watch out for this
Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. 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.
Common questions
On this playing page, what is the goal of FreeCell?
Here is the relevant explanation: Build four suit foundations from ace to king.
Before I begin, 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?
With two empty cells and no spare empty column, a group of at most three cards can move together.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in FreeCell?
Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy.
While reading the Guide, what format does FreeCell offer?
One face-up deck. Transfer capacity counts available cells and spare empty columns. Free solo play, no wagering.
When I return, which play mode does FreeCell use?
The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.