Lay out the cards: Spider Solitaire

Spider Solitaire takes the classic card game formula and twists it into a deep, strategic puzzle. Instead of a single row, you're faced with ten columns of cards, some face-down, and your goal is to build eight full sequences from King down to Ace. The catch: sequences must be built within the same suit to be removed, but you can move any face-up card or group of cards that are in descending order, regardless of suit, as long as they follow the sequence. This creates a delicate balance between building freely and conserving your moves to release hidden cards and manage the tableau's clutter. What makes Spider Solitaire so engaging is its blend of luck and careful planning. Every move you make can either unlock new possibilities or lock you into a dead end. The game rewards patience and foresight, urging you to think several steps ahead. With its clean, calm presentation and satisfying click-to-move mechanics, it's a perfect pick for a quiet afternoon or a quick mental workout. Whether you're a seasoned solitaire player or new to the genre, this version offers a rewarding challenge that scales with your skill.

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Lay out the cards: Spider Solitaire

Common Core State Standards

Every game supports specific Common Core standards. Browse the full standards library.

6.RP.A.3Ratio reasoning MP3Argue with math MP1Make sense of problems MP5Use tools strategically MP7Use structure MP4Model with mathematics MP2Reason abstractly 2.MD.A.3Estimate lengths

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What is Lay out the cards: Spider Solitaire

Spider Solitaire invites you to untangle a web of cards spread across the table. It's a test of patience and strategy, where every move counts.

How to Play

Click on a card or a sequence of cards to move them to another column, provided they follow descending order (King to Ace). Build complete sequences of the same suit to automatically remove them from the board, and use the stock pile in the bottom right to deal new cards when you're stuck.

Tips for Playing

Prioritize revealing face-down cards early, as this expands your options.
Avoid moving cards to an empty column unless you plan to use it for a long sequence.
Try to build sequences in the same suit even if you can't remove them yet, to reduce clutter.
Use the stock pile sparingly; it's a last resort to get unstuck, but can flood the tableau.
Look for opportunities to rearrange columns to create longer runs, not just single moves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of Spider Solitaire?

The goal is to arrange all cards into eight complete sequences from King to Ace, each of the same suit, to clear the tableau.

How many suits are used in this game?

This version uses a single suit (spades), making it easier to build sequences, but you can adjust difficulty in settings if available.

Can I move a group of cards that are not in the same suit?

You can move a group if they are in descending order, but they must all be of the same suit to be moved together. Mixed-suit groups cannot be moved as a unit.

What happens when I click the stock pile?

Clicking the stock pile deals one new card to each of the ten columns, but only if all columns have at least one card. Use it when you have no other moves.

Is there a way to undo a move?

Yes, most versions include an undo button, allowing you to reverse your last move if you make a mistake. Check the interface for the undo icon.

Why can't I move a card to an empty column?

You can move any card or sequence to an empty column, but it's often better to save empty columns for strategic placements, as they offer flexibility.