Golf Solitaire is a card-based puzzle game where the objective is to clear a tableau of cards by selecting cards that are one rank higher or lower than the top card of the foundation pile. This browser-based game combines the scoring concept of golf with classic solitaire mechanics. Players use a simple click interface to move cards from seven columns to a single foundation pile, aiming for the lowest possible score over nine rounds.
True to its name, the goal in Golf Solitaire is to get the lowest score, just like in the sport. The game is typically played over nine rounds, referred to as "holes." At the end of each round, every card remaining in your tableau counts as one point against you. If you successfully clear the entire tableau, you score zero for that hole.
Your total score is the sum of your points from all nine holes. This scoring system encourages strategic thinking, as you must decide whether to make a short-term move or hold out for a longer sequence that might clear more cards later on.
Success in Golf Solitaire isn't just about luck; it requires planning. Always scan the entire tableau before making a move. Prioritize uncovering the face-down cards, as this reveals new options and expands your potential plays. It's often better to make a move that frees up a card in a tall column than one that clears a card from a nearly empty column.
Also, remember that Kings and Aces are connected. You can place a King on an Ace and vice-versa. This "wrap-around" feature is crucial for creating long, board-clearing chains. Try to visualize a few moves ahead to see how one play might set up a sequence of three or four subsequent moves.
While both are solitaire games, Golf Solitaire has very different rules from the more common Klondike version (the one most people know as "Solitaire"). In Klondike, you build columns down in alternating colors. In Golf Solitaire, you don't build on the tableau at all-you only move cards to a single foundation pile.
The key difference is the sequence. In Golf Solitaire, cards can be played to the foundation if they are one rank higher or one rank lower, regardless of suit or color. This creates a much faster-paced and distinct style of play focused on creating long runs from the available cards.
You can enjoy Golf Solitaire directly in your web browser with no downloads required. This HTML5 version is completely free and unblocked, making it accessible on school or work networks that might restrict access to other gaming sites. Just open the page and start playing instantly.
The main objective in Golf Solitaire is to clear the tableau, which consists of 35 cards arranged in seven columns. You accomplish this by moving cards from the tableau to the foundation pile at the bottom of the screen. The goal is to finish nine rounds, or "holes," with the lowest cumulative score. The game is controlled entirely with the mouse. To make a move, you left click on an uncovered card in the tableau that is exactly one rank higher or one rank lower than the current card showing on the foundation pile. Suit and color do not matter. When you can no longer make a move from the tableau, you must click on the stock pile to deal a new card to the foundation. This gives you a new base card to work with. The game ends for that round when the stock pile is empty and no more moves can be made. Remember that Aces and Kings are consecutive, so you can place an Ace on a King or a King on an Ace.
Plan Your Sequence - Before clicking, mentally map out the longest possible run of cards you can play. This helps you use your foundation card most effectively. Prioritize Uncovering Cards - Focus on making moves that will flip over a face-down card. More visible cards mean more strategic options. Use the Wrap-Around - Don't forget that Kings can be played on Aces and vice versa. This is a powerful move for extending your plays when you seem stuck. Clear Tall Columns - If you have a choice, it's often better to play a card from a column with many face-down cards to start working your way through it. Know When to Draw - Don't rush to click the stock pile. Double-check the entire tableau to ensure you haven't missed any possible moves before getting a new card.
