What Is Spider Solitaire?
Spider Solitaire is one of the most popular solitaire card games in the world, second only to Klondike. The game uses two full decks of cards (104 cards total) and challenges players to build descending sequences from King to Ace within the tableau columns. Completed sequences are automatically removed from the board. Spider Solitaire was included in Microsoft Windows starting with Windows XP, where it quickly became a favorite among office workers and casual gamers. The game offers three difficulty levels based on how many suits are in play, ranging from a relaxing single-suit game to the formidable four-suit challenge that tests even experienced card players.
How to Play Spider Solitaire
- The game deals 54 cards into ten tableau columns. The first four columns receive six cards each and the remaining six columns receive five cards each. Only the top card of each column is face up.
- The remaining 50 cards form the stock pile, divided into five deals of ten cards each.
- Build descending sequences within the tableau columns. In one-suit mode, any descending card can be placed on the next higher card. In multi-suit modes, you can stack any descending card but can only move groups that share the same suit.
- When you complete a full descending sequence from King to Ace of the same suit, the sequence is automatically removed from the board.
- Click the stock pile to deal one new card to each of the ten columns. You cannot deal from stock if any column is empty.
- Remove all eight complete sequences (King through Ace) to win the game.
Basic Rules
- Build descending sequences in the tableau regardless of suit, but only same-suit sequences can be moved as a group
- A complete King-to-Ace sequence of one suit is automatically removed
- Any card or valid same-suit sequence can fill an empty column
- All ten columns must contain at least one card before dealing from stock
- The stock deals one card face up to each of the ten columns
- The game is won when all eight suit sequences are completed and removed
Strategy Tips for Beginners
- Focus on building same-suit sequences whenever possible. Mixed-suit stacks are harder to untangle later in the game.
- Try to empty a tableau column early. Empty columns act as temporary storage and give you flexibility to rearrange cards.
- Before dealing from the stock, organize your tableau as much as possible. New cards can block important sequences.
- Expose face-down cards as a priority. The more information you have, the better decisions you can make.
- In two-suit and four-suit games, avoid mixing suits in a column unless absolutely necessary.
- Keep track of which Kings are available. You need Kings to start new sequences in empty columns.
Real Examples of Gameplay
Building a Same-Suit Run
You have a 7 of Spades on a column and a 6 of Spades available on another column. Moving the 6 onto the 7 creates a same-suit run that can be moved as a unit later. Always prefer same-suit builds over mixed-suit stacks.
Using an Empty Column
An empty column appears after completing a sequence. Use it as temporary storage to move a blocking card out of the way, reorganize a column, and then fill the empty column with a King to start a fresh sequence.
Preparing for a Stock Deal
Before clicking the stock pile, ensure no columns are empty (required to deal) and try to create same-suit runs. The ten new cards will cover your current work, so maximize your progress first.
Variations of Spider Solitaire
- One Suit (Easy): Uses only Spades. All cards match by suit, making it the most forgiving and relaxing difficulty level.
- Two Suits (Medium): Uses Spades and Hearts. Adds complexity since you must track two suits and avoid mixing sequences.
- Four Suits (Hard): Uses all four suits. The classic expert challenge requiring careful planning and advanced strategy.
Why People Love Spider Solitaire
- Deeper strategic challenge than standard Klondike Solitaire
- Three difficulty levels suit players of all skill levels
- The satisfaction of completing a full King-to-Ace sequence
- Longer games that provide extended entertainment
- A perfect blend of planning, patience, and problem solving
Play Spider Solitaire Online for Free
Play Spider Solitaire for free right in your browser. Choose from one-suit, two-suit, or four-suit difficulty. Features include undo, hints, and smooth card animations. No downloads or registration required. Works on desktop and mobile devices.
Comparison
| Version | Difficulty | Players | Typical Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Suit (Easy) | Easy | 1 | 10 to 15 min |
| 2 Suits (Medium) | Medium | 1 | 15 to 25 min |
| 4 Suits (Hard) | Hard | 1 | 20 to 35 min |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every Spider Solitaire game winnable?
Not every deal is winnable. Estimates suggest that roughly 99% of one-suit games are solvable, while four-suit games have a significantly lower win rate. Strategy and careful play increase your chances substantially.
How long does a game of Spider Solitaire take?
A one-suit game typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Two-suit and four-suit games often take 15 to 30 minutes depending on the deal and your experience level. Some challenging deals may take even longer.
What difficulty should beginners start with?
Start with one-suit Spider Solitaire to learn the mechanics and strategy. Once you can win one-suit games consistently, move to two suits. Four-suit games are best attempted after you are comfortable with two-suit play.
Start Playing Now
Spider Solitaire offers a richer and more strategic card game experience than most solitaire variants. Whether you enjoy the relaxing pace of one-suit games or the intense challenge of four suits, every deal presents a fresh puzzle. Start building your sequences now.