Spider Solitaire: Play online for free, no download required
Spider Solitaire is a fascinating test of logic and endurance. Unlike FreeCell which uses one deck, Spider uses two decks and is known for its difficulty. Players treasure the sense of achievement it brings.
How to Play
Goal: The objective is to build eight complete sequences of cards, running from King down to Ace within the tableau. Once a full run is completed in a single suit, it automatically moves off the board, creating much-needed open space.
Setup
- Tableau: The main playing area consists of ten columns of cards. The first four columns begin with six cards each, while the last six columns start with five. Only the top card of each pile is face up.
- Stock: This is the reserve pile containing the remaining cards. You deal one new card onto each tableau column whenever you're stuck or want to refresh the game state.
- Suits: Spider can be played in 1-suit, 2-suit, or 4-suit modes. Fewer suits make the game easier, while more suits increase complexity significantly.
Rules
- Building: You can place any card on another card that is exactly one rank higher, regardless of suits (for example, a 5 on a 6). However, mixing suits within a sequence can limit your ability to move stacks.
- Moving: You can move a stack or sequence only if all the cards in that stack share the same suit and are in perfect descending order (for example, 9♣, 8♣, 7♣).
- Dealing: You cannot deal a new row from the stock while any column in the tableau is empty. Fill all empty spaces first before drawing.
Spider Tactics
- Suit PurityAlthough the rules allow for mixing suits, it is rarely a good idea. Mixing suits can freeze parts of your tableau and complicate rearranging sequences. Keeping runs pure allows for smoother and more flexible movement later.
- Empty ColumnsThis is your most powerful tool. Once a column is empty, it becomes a temporary workspace for holding cards and untangling complex piles. Focus on creating empty columns early in the game.
- Deal CarefullyDon’t press "Deal" until you’ve exhausted all your current options. New cards can cover your progress, bury valuable sequences, and can greatly reduce your mobility.
- Patience Pays OffAlways think several moves ahead. Spider rewards calm, thoughtful play. Impulsive choices can lead to being stuck on the board later.
Origins
Spider Solitaire got its name from the eight “legs” of a spider, symbolizing the eight complete sequences needed to win the game. It dates back to the early 20th century, where it was printed under various names. Its major breakthrough happened in the digital age, especially when Microsoft included Spider Solitaire in Windows XP, making it one of the most challenging and popular computer card games of all time.
Brain Training
Complex Planning
Managing multiple interrelated suits at once trains your working memory and sequencing skills. You need to constantly juggle dependencies between stacks, anticipating how one move will affect the tableau.
Patience and Discipline
Spider Solitaire is not a quick game. One careless move can ruin hours of work. It promotes concentration, tolerance for mistakes, and strategic persistence.
Cognitive Flexibility
Switching between short-term tactics and long-term goals mimics decision-making in real-world problem solving and strengthens your executive function.
Spider FAQ
Which difficulty should I start with?
Start with 1 Suit mode to understand the flow and pacing. It’s more relaxing and forgiving. 2 Suits is the standard difficulty most players master, while 4 Suits offers a nearly perfect puzzle for experts seeking an intense challenge.
What happens when I complete a run?
When you complete a full King-to-Ace sequence of the same suit, it automatically gets removed from the tableau. This creates empty space, a crucial advantage for reorganizing and progressing toward victory.
Can every deal be won?
Not always. Some layouts require very precise play, and a few combinations may be too tangled to resolve. However, most Spider deals are theoretically solvable with enough foresight and patience.
How long does a typical game take?
A casual 1-suit game might last about 10 to 15 minutes. In contrast, a 4-suit expert match can take an hour or more, offering a deep and rewarding strategic challenge.
Want to report a bug, ask for a new feature or contact us? support@solitaire-88.com
4.87/5 - 10,349 votes