SolitaireThreeCell Solitaire at a glance
FreeCell with just three spare cells. Every open space matters a little more.
The missing fourth cell changes your opening plan. Trace a route that uncovers a foundation card while keeping one cell available, and count spare columns before attempting a long group move.
Rules and objective
- Eight open columns contain seven cards in the first four and six in the rest. Three cells start empty.
- Build down in alternating colors. Any card or legal run can fill an empty column.
- Each cell holds one card. Group moves need enough empty cells and spare empty columns to move the cards individually. The destination is not a spare column.
- Build four foundations from Ace to King in suit. Move all 52 cards there to win.
The table enforces legal moves and saves the current deal in this browser. Hints identify a move that is available now; they do not guarantee that the deal can still be won.
Strategy: how to play better
First priority
Keep a cell free and work toward opening a column for longer rearrangements.
Budget the three cells
A move that fills all three cells leaves no temporary parking. Keep at least one open while untangling a crowded column.
Open a real spare column
An empty column can increase the length of a group move, but the destination column does not count as a spare. Plan the transfer card by card.
Frequently asked questions
Why will a long sequence not move together?
The shortcut works only when the cards could be moved individually with the empty cells and spare columns you have. The destination column does not count as spare space.
What can fill an empty column?
Any exposed card or legal alternating-color run may start an empty column.