How to Play Pyramid Solitaire
Pyramid Solitaire is a classic matching game where you remove pairs of exposed cards that sum to 13. Clear all 28 cards from the pyramid to win. Kings are removed on their own since they equal 13.
📋 Rules
Setup
28 cards are dealt face-up in a 7-row pyramid shape. Each row has one more card than the row above. The remaining 24 cards form the stock pile.
Matching Pairs
Remove two exposed cards that add up to 13. For example: Queen (12) + Ace (1), Jack (11) + 2, 10 + 3, 9 + 4, 8 + 5, 7 + 6.
Kings
Kings equal 13 by themselves. Click a King to remove it immediately without needing a pair.
Exposure
A pyramid card is "exposed" when both cards below it (its children) have been removed. Only exposed cards can be matched.
Stock & Waste
Click the stock to flip cards to the waste pile. The top waste card can be paired with any exposed pyramid card.
🧠 Strategy Tips
- Always remove Kings immediately — there is never a reason to leave them.
- Plan your pairs to expose cards higher in the pyramid. Focus on uncovering the peak.
- Look for chain reactions — removing one pair might expose cards that form another pair.
- Use the stock strategically. Sometimes it is better to wait before drawing.
- Try to keep the pyramid balanced. Clearing one side while ignoring the other leads to dead ends.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Pyramid games are winnable?
Only about 2-5% of Pyramid Solitaire deals are winnable, making it one of the hardest solitaire variants. Enjoy the challenge!
Can I pair a waste card with another waste card?
No. You can only pair a waste card with an exposed pyramid card, or remove a King from either location.
What happens when the stock is empty?
You can recycle the waste pile back into the stock and go through it again.