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Forty Thieves Solitaire: learn through an example

Something to practise

Take a moment to read the table. Select a face-up card and then the destination pile or Empty slot. Check the relevant controls before continuing.

What counts as success

Build eight suit foundations from ace to king. Check the relevant controls before continuing. Use the rule sheet as a reference.

The steps to play

  1. Move one card at a time; build down in the same suit. Empty columns accept one card.
  2. Select a face-up card and then the destination pile or Empty slot.
  3. Move exposed cards onto suit foundations in the stated rank order.
  4. Undo reverses a choice. New deal shuffles again.

Choosing and moving on screen

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. Take the next action only when the current step is clear. Look at the complete hand before deciding.

A useful example

A club 5 can move onto a club 6, but a whole run cannot move together. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

A mistake to avoid

Begin with the objective. Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

A few questions answered

What is the aim?

Build eight suit foundations from ace to king. A clear plan starts with the current position. Check the relevant controls before continuing.

How do I use the controls?

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. A clear plan starts with the current position. Check the relevant controls before continuing.

Which format is available?

Two decks, ten columns, single-pass stock, no recycle. Free solo play, no wagering. Treat this as a chance to practise one rule. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

What should I check before a move?

Random deals are not guaranteed solvable. A hint is a legal move, not a winning strategy. Look at the complete hand before deciding. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

Can you give an example?

A club 5 can move onto a club 6, but a whole run cannot move together. Take a moment to read the table. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

What completes a round?

Build eight suit foundations from ace to king. Look at the complete hand before deciding. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

Which controls should I use?

Click or tap cards and piles. Wide tableaus scroll inside the game; use Undo, Hint and New deal where shown. Look at the complete hand before deciding. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

Which version is played here?

Two decks, ten columns, single-pass stock, no recycle. Free solo play, no wagering. Take a moment to read the table. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

Does play involve an account or cash?

No. Play is free, without registration, deposits, bets or cash prizes. Take a moment to read the table. Use another round to revisit a decision.

What completes a round?

Build eight suit foundations from ace to king. For a calm first round, focus on one decision. Check the relevant controls before continuing.