Following these simple hints can increase your chances of winning spider solitaire two fold.
It is all about the spaces
Try to get an empty space as soon as possible, as a space can contain any card or sequential group of cards. Use a space wisely to allow as many cards to be arranged in suit order as possible.
Try avoid putting a king on a space, as it cannot be moved unless a full 13 card sequence is created and then discarded.
If two spaces exist at the same time, rearranging cards becomes much easier and can make a huge difference in the outcome of the game.
We must plan ahead for success
Spider solitaire requires that moves be planned ahead. Don't just make the first move immediately available.
Try to plan moves that allow the most cards as possible to be arranged in suit order, as this allows these cards to be moved as a unit making further plays more flexible.
Try to expose hidden cards whenever possible, as they are of no use covered up and can often lead to a new series of moves. This also allows the possibility of a new space being created.
Build sequences starting with the highest cards first. Once low cards are covered with a lower different suit, they are locked out of play until uncovered. Also keep in mind that an ace cannot be built upon.
Spider solitaire is really two games in one
Spider solitaire has two parts. The first part is getting as many cards exposed and in order before the first deal of ten cards. The second part is dealing the five sets of cards and keeping as many cards in order as possible.
If you don't have most of the cards exposed and in order in the beginning, the chances of winning are dramatically reduced.
Don't rush into dealing the first set of cards until you have totally exhausted all possible moves and uncovered as any cards as possible. Dealing the first set of cards to soon is a sure path to failure.
Once these new cards are dealt, all cards beneath are now no longer available for play until uncovered. Follow these hints and tips and watch your spider game improve almost immediately
About the Author
Trisha Ellington works for Softgame Company, maker of
card games, video poker and puzzles.
