How Canfield works
A game that began in casinos, where players bought the deck and were paid for each card played. Here you simply play for the win.
- Layout. A reserve of 13 cards (top card face up), four columns of one card, one card on the first foundation and a stock of 34.
- Foundations. The first card sets the starting rank. The other three foundations start on a card of that rank and build up in suit, with King followed by Ace.
- Columns. Build down in alternating colours: a black 6 on a red 7. A King can go on an Ace. A run in sequence moves as one.
- Reserve. Only the top card can move. An empty column is filled from the reserve at once. When the reserve is gone, any card can fill a gap.
- The stock. Turn three cards at a time onto the waste. When the stock is empty, turn the waste over and go again.
Tips for Canfield
- Empty the reserve. The 13 cards are the hardest ones to reach, so play them whenever you can.
- Use a gap wisely. Moving a column into another empties it, and the reserve refills it with a fresh card.
- Look at the base rank. Cards of that rank go straight to the foundations, so do not bury them.
- Count the waste. Only every third card is within reach, so note which ones you can get.
More games to try
Frequently asked questions
How do you play Canfield solitaire?
Thirteen cards form the reserve, with only the top one face up. One card starts the first foundation, which fixes the rank every foundation starts on. Four cards start the columns. Columns build down in alternating colours, and you can move a run of cards together. Turn the stock three cards at a time.
How do you win Canfield?
Move all 52 cards to the four foundations. Each builds up in one suit, beginning on the rank of the first foundation card, and wraps from King to Ace.
What does the reserve do?
Its top card can be played to a column or a foundation. When a column becomes empty it is filled from the reserve straight away, until the reserve runs out.
What goes into an empty column?
Once the reserve is empty, any card or run of cards. Until then the reserve fills the gap for you.
Can I go through the stock more than once?
Yes, as many times as you like. This version has no limit on passes.
Why is Canfield so hard?
There are only four columns, and the starting rank changes from deal to deal. A good result depends on freeing the reserve early. Use Undo to test ideas.