How to Play Golf Solitaire
Golf Solitaire is a simple yet addictive game where you clear 7 columns of cards by playing them onto a waste pile. A card can be played if it is exactly one rank higher or lower than the waste pile top. The goal is to clear all cards — fewer remaining cards means a better score.
📋 Rules
Setup
35 cards are dealt face-up into 7 columns of 5 cards each. The remaining 17 cards form the stock, with one card dealt to start the waste pile.
Playing Cards
Click the bottom card of any column if it is one rank higher or lower than the waste pile top. For example, play a 5 on a 4 or a 6.
No Wrapping
Unlike TriPeaks, Kings and Aces do NOT wrap. A King can only be played on a Queen, and an Ace only on a 2.
Stock
When no column cards can be played, click the stock to draw a new waste card. There are no recycles.
Scoring
Your goal is to clear all 35 cards. The fewer cards remaining when the stock runs out, the better your score.
🧠 Strategy Tips
- Look for long runs before playing. Sometimes starting from a different card yields more plays.
- Clear columns with fewer cards first when possible — this opens up more options.
- Pay attention to the stock count. With only 16 draws available, every draw counts.
- Avoid getting stuck on Kings (at the top of a run) or Aces (at the bottom) since they can not wrap.
- Think of each column as a mini-sequence. Mentally trace which cards connect before committing.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good Golf Solitaire score?
Clearing all 35 cards is rare and impressive. Leaving 5 or fewer cards is considered a great score. The average player leaves about 10-15 cards.
Is Golf Solitaire mostly luck?
It is more luck-dependent than games like FreeCell, but strategy still matters. Choosing which playable card to pick and when to draw makes a big difference.
Why is it called Golf?
Because lower scores are better! Your "score" is how many cards remain uncleared — like golf strokes, fewer is better.