Rules of the game
Move all 52 cards to 4 suited foundations by using the 4 free cells and empty cascades as temporary space.
- Build cascades downward in alternating colors.
- Each free cell holds exactly one card.
- An empty cascade can receive any card or valid sequence.
- The size of a movable sequence depends on the free cells and empty cascades available.
Understand the layout
Cascades
The first 4 cascades contain 7 cards each and the last 4 contain 6, all face up.
Free cells
Each of the 4 cells holds 1 temporary card.
Foundations
4 piles build upward by suit from Ace to King.
Concrete move examples
Legal move
Place a red 6 on a black 7, move any card into an empty cascade, or move a sequence that could be transferred through the available cells and columns.
Illegal move
Place two cards in one free cell, or move a sequence larger than the current free-space capacity.
How to play well
Every visible card makes FreeCell a planning game. Start by locating the Aces and low cards, then identify which short moves can release them without filling all 4 free cells.
A free cell should solve a temporary problem. Before placing a card there, know which cascade or foundation will receive it later, otherwise the cell becomes a permanent obstruction.
Empty cascades multiply movement capacity. Keeping one empty is often more valuable than making a long move immediately, especially when several cards still need to be rearranged.
Useful tips
- Keep at least one free cell open when possible.
- Use empty cascades before filling every free cell.
- Plan how a temporary move will be reversed.
Mistakes to avoid
- Do not trap low cards beneath long descending runs.
- Do not fill all four free cells without an exit plan.
How the game ends
You win when all 52 cards reach the foundations. The engine checks every legal destination before declaring the position blocked.
Common questions
How many cards can move together?
The capacity depends on empty free cells and empty cascades, because the grouped move represents legal single-card moves.
Can any card enter an empty cascade?
Yes, any card or sequence within the current movement capacity can enter it.
Are any cards hidden?
No. Every card is face up from the opening deal.