Rules of Pyramid Solitaire

Last updated: 12/11/2024

Pyramid Solitaire is a captivating single-player card game that challenges players to clear a pyramid-shaped tableau by pairing cards that total 13. Here are the detailed rules to help you master the game:

Objective

The goal of Pyramid Solitaire is to remove all cards from the pyramid, waste pile, and stockpile by forming pairs of cards that add up to 13.

Card Values:

Aces = 1

Number cards = Face value (e.g., 2 = 2, 10 = 10)

Jack = 11

Queen = 12

King = 13 (can be removed individually without pairing)

Game Setup

The Pyramid:

The tableau consists of 28 cards arranged in a pyramid with seven overlapping rows. The top row has 1 card, the second row has 2, and so on until the seventh row has 7 cards.

Only fully exposed cards (those not overlapped by other cards) can be paired and removed.

The Stockpile:

The remaining 24 cards form the stockpile, which you draw from when no pairs are available in the pyramid.

The Waste Pile:

Cards drawn from the stockpile are placed face-up in the waste pile. Only the top card of the waste pile is available for pairing.

The Foundation Pile:

Paired cards that add up to 13 (or individual Kings) are removed to the foundation pile and are no longer in play.

Gameplay Rules

Pair Cards to Add Up to 13:

Pair two exposed cards (from the pyramid, stockpile, or waste pile) to total 13 and remove them.

Examples:

A Jack (11) + 2 = 13

An 8 + 5 = 13

Remove Kings Individually:

Kings, worth 13 points, can be removed without pairing.

Exposed Cards Only:

Only cards that are not covered by other cards in the pyramid are available for pairing.

Draw from the Stockpile:

If no moves are possible, draw the top card from the stockpile and place it in the waste pile.

Use Waste Pile Cards:

The top card of the waste pile can be paired with an exposed card in the pyramid or with another card from the waste pile or stockpile.

Recycle the Stockpile:

After exhausting the stockpile, you can reshuffle the waste pile back into the stockpile. Most versions of Pyramid Solitaire allow only one or two reshuffles.

Game End:

The game ends when all cards are cleared from the pyramid and stockpile, or when no further moves are possible after exhausting the stockpile and waste pile.

Key Considerations

Plan Moves Carefully: Each move impacts the availability of other cards. Think strategically before pairing.

Avoid Blocking Cards: Focus on clearing cards in the upper rows of the pyramid first to reveal hidden cards.

Maximize Stockpile Efficiency: Use stockpile cards sparingly and try to pair them with pyramid cards to maximize your chances of clearing the tableau.

Pyramid Solitaire combines strategic thinking and a touch of luck, making it a fun and challenging game for players of all skill levels. Enjoy clearing the pyramid and improving your game with each round!