Spider Solitaire

Spider Solitaire is a widely enjoyed variation of traditional solitaire, distinguished by its use of two decks, totaling 104 cards. The primary goal is to construct eight sequences of cards, each in descending order from King to Ace, all within the same suit. Successfully completing a sequence removes it from the tableau, and the game is won when all cards are cleared.

The setup includes ten tableau columns: the first four columns hold six cards each, and the remaining six have five cards each, with only the top card face up. The rest of the cards remain face down, and the leftover cards form the stock pile.

Players can move cards between columns to build descending sequences, regardless of suit. However, to move a group of cards together, they must be in sequence and of the same suit. Empty columns offer flexibility, as any card or valid sequence can fill them.

When no further moves are available, players can deal ten cards from the stock—one to each column—provided no column is empty. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy, especially in the more challenging two-suit and four-suit variants.

Named for the eight sequences that mirror a spider’s eight legs, Spider Solitaire gained fame through its inclusion in Microsoft’s Windows 98. Its blend of simplicity and strategic depth has made it a timeless favorite, now accessible online for free.