How Golf solitaire works
A short game of planning ahead. You can see every card in the columns from the first move.
- Layout. Seven columns of five cards, all face up. One card is turned over beside them to start the foundation, and the remaining 16 cards are the stock.
- Playing. Only the bottom card of each column can be played. It goes on the foundation when it is one rank above or below the card showing.
- Chains. Each card you play becomes the new top card. You can go up, down, up again: 6, 7, 6, 5, 4.
- The stock. Click it to turn a card onto the foundation when nothing else fits. It also changes the card you are matching.
- Winning. Clear every column.
Tips for Golf solitaire
- Plan the chain first. Find the longest run of plays before you start. Every column is fully visible, so you can see where a chain leads.
- Save stock cards. Each one is a free card to bridge a gap, so use them only when a chain ends.
- Watch the Kings. Nothing follows a King except a Queen, and a King on the foundation ends a chain. Clear Kings when the column needs it, not before.
- Use Undo. It is unlimited, so test a different order of plays.
More games to try
Frequently asked questions
How do you play Golf solitaire?
Seven columns of five cards are dealt face up, and one card is turned over to start the foundation. Move the bottom card of any column onto the foundation if it is one rank higher or lower than the card showing there. If you cannot, turn a card from the stock.
How do you win Golf solitaire?
Clear all 35 cards from the seven columns. Cards left in the stock do not count against you.
Does a King connect to an Ace?
No. In this version ranks do not wrap, so only a Queen goes on a King, and only a 2 goes on an Ace. Some versions wrap around, so check the rules before you compare results.
Does the suit matter?
No. Any suit and any colour will do. Only the rank counts.
Can I go through the stock again?
No. The stock has 16 cards and each is turned over once. Use them carefully.
What is the best way to play?
Look for the longest chain you can make before touching the stock. Every card you take from a column is one less for later, and a chain that ends on a card you cannot continue from is wasted.