What is Pyramid Solitaire?
Pyramid Solitaire is a popular single-player card game that combines strategy, logic, and a bit of luck. The goal is to remove pairs of cards that add up to 13 until all cards are cleared from the pyramid.
Game Setup
- Deck: Pyramid Solitaire is played with a standard 52-card deck.
- Card Values:
- Aces = 1
- Number Cards = Face Value (2-10)
- Jacks = 11, Queens = 12, Kings = 13 (can be removed alone)
- Pyramid Layout: The game starts with 28 cards arranged in a pyramid shape (7 rows, with each row containing one more card than the previous). The remaining cards form a draw pile.
How to Play Pyramid Solitaire
Remove Pairs That Sum to 13
- You can remove two uncovered cards from the pyramid if their sum equals 13.
- Kings (worth 13) can be removed individually.
Use the Draw Pile
- If no moves are available in the pyramid, draw cards one at a time from the stockpile to find new matches.
- Some variations allow three cards to be drawn at once.
Uncover New Cards
- Removing a pair reveals the cards beneath them, making new moves possible.
- The game continues until no moves remain or the pyramid is cleared.
Winning the Game
You win if you remove all cards from the pyramid before running out of draw pile cards. If no moves are available, the game is lost.
Tips & Strategies
- Prioritize Pyramid Cards: Clear pyramid cards before relying on the draw pile.
- Plan Moves in Advance: Consider future moves to avoid blocking essential cards.
- Use the Draw Pile Wisely: Don't rush through it; remember which cards may be useful later.
- Focus on Uncovering Cards: Removing cards that reveal new options is key to success.
Pyramid Solitaire is a fun and strategic card game that challenges your ability to think ahead. Master these rules, and you’ll increase your chances of winning!
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