Spider Solitaire: Card Games

Spider Solitaire is a card game played with two decks, and it is generally considered more challenging than Klondike. This version from MobilityWare offers the traditional game with a clean design and several difficulty levels. The aim is to build complete sequences of cards from king down to ace within the columns. When a full sequence is created, it is removed from the board. The game is won when all eight sequences have been cleared.

How the rules work
The table has ten columns, with the top cards of each column face up. You can move a card, or a group of cards, onto another card that is one rank higher, regardless of suit. However, to move a group of cards together, they must all be of the same suit and in sequence. When you run out of useful moves, you deal a new row of cards from the stock onto the columns. Because dealing adds cards to every column, it is wise to use up your other moves first. In some versions, you may be required to fill empty columns before dealing, so check the rules in the app.

Difficulty levels
You can usually choose to play with one, two or four suits. One suit is the easiest and is ideal for learning. Two suits adds a considerable challenge because you need to pay attention to which cards you are stacking. Four suits is difficult and many games cannot be won, so it is best for experienced players who enjoy a tough puzzle. Starting with one suit and moving up gradually is a good way to build skill.

Strategy tips
Aim to expose face-down cards quickly and to create empty columns, which give you flexibility. Try to build sequences of the same suit rather than mixing suits, since mixed stacks can become blocked. Think about which column to deal into and avoid burying important cards. Use undo to learn from mistakes, and do not rush. Before moving a card, consider what it uncovers and whether a better move is available.

Features and customisation
The app provides hints, unlimited undo, statistics, daily challenges and event-style goals. You can change card styles and orientation and play offline. These features make it suitable for casual players and for those who like to track improvement over time.

Ads and purchases
The app is free to download. The store listing describes it as playable offline and ad-free, with optional extras, but offers change, so read the current listing before relying on that. Parents should supervise purchases on children’s devices.

Who it suits
It suits players who enjoy longer card puzzles that reward planning, as well as fans of solitaire who want a step up from Klondike. It is a good game for quiet time, though some people may find it slow. Players who prefer quick matches or social features might look elsewhere.

How it compares
Compared with Klondike, Spider has more cards and more room for strategy. Compared with FreeCell, it has hidden cards and a luck element, because not all cards are visible at the start.

Our take
Spider Solitaire is a thoughtful card puzzle with rewarding depth. Install it from the official store link on this page and start with one suit.