Solitaire
About Russian Bank
Russian Bank is a turn-based contest sometimes described as double solitaire with interaction. Players share eight houses and foundations, and may place cards onto an opponent’s reserve or waste.
Compulsory moves give the game its bite: a foundation play may take priority over the move you planned. Our table blocks priority mistakes and keeps the focus on strategy.
How to play Russian Bank
- Each player begins with a reserve, stock and waste; eight shared houses form the tableau.
- Build houses downward in alternating colors, moving one card at a time.
- Build shared foundations upward by suit from Ace to King.
- You may load an opponent’s nonempty reserve or waste with a same-suit card one rank higher or lower.
- Follow compulsory priorities, draw one exposed hand card, and discard it to end the turn. Empty your reserve, stock and waste to win.
Tips for a better game
- Check compulsory foundation moves before planning a house move.
- Use opponent loading to remove awkward cards while making their top card less convenient.
- Treat empty houses carefully because the reserve has priority when filling them.
Frequently asked questions
Is Russian Bank the same as Crapette?
Crapette is the French name for the same two-player patience family. Our two tables use the same core rules.
What is a compulsory move?
Certain foundation and reserve moves must be taken before other legal-looking choices. The game prevents a lower-priority move when a required one exists.
Can I play onto my opponent’s cards?
Yes. A same-suit card one rank above or below may be loaded onto a nonempty opposing reserve or waste.
How do you win Russian Bank?
Be the first player to clear your reserve, stock and waste.