FreeCell for Beginners
FreeCell scares people because every card is visible from the start. Actually that's what makes it fair: almost every deal can be won.
The rules in one minute
- Eight columns, all face up. Build down in alternating colours (red 7 on black 8).
- Four free cells hold one card each. Any card can go in an empty column.
- Build the four foundations from Ace to King by suit.
Your first moves
- Find the Aces and 2s. Which are near the top of a column? Free those first.
- Look for moves that don't use a free cell: card onto card.
- Try to empty the shortest column.
Beginner mistakes
- Filling the free cells. Four full cells is usually the end. Use a cell only with a plan to empty it.
- Burying low cards. Putting a 9 on top of a column that holds a 2 just makes the 2 harder to reach.
- Forgetting empty columns. An empty column is worth more than two free cells.
A practice plan
Play deals #1 to #10 in order (type the number in the ☰ menu). They're the same as the classic Windows game, so you can compare notes with friends.
🃏 Try it now: play FreeCell free in your browser, no download, no money.
FAQ
Is FreeCell good for beginners?
Yes. Because all cards are visible and nearly every deal can be won, it teaches planning without bad luck.
What is the most common FreeCell mistake?
Filling the free cells too early.