Pyramid Solitaire is a unique and engaging variation of Solitaire that challenges players to clear a pyramid-shaped layout of cards by matching card values that add up to thirteen.
Unlike classic Solitaire games that require building sequences, Pyramid Solitaire focuses on pairing cards strategically to remove them from the board.
In this guide, you’ll learn the official Pyramid Solitaire rules, how the game is set up, and strategies that can help improve your chances of winning.
Whether you’re completely new to Pyramid Solitaire or looking to sharpen your strategy, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Pyramid Solitaire?
Pyramid Solitaire is a card game played with a standard 52-card deck. The game gets its name from the distinctive pyramid-shaped layout created when the cards are dealt at the beginning of the game.
The objective is simple:
Remove cards from the pyramid by pairing them so their combined value equals 13.
Once all cards in the pyramid have been removed, the game is won.
Pyramid Solitaire is known for being easy to learn but surprisingly strategic, making it a favorite among casual card players.
Pyramid Solitaire Setup
At the start of the game, the deck is shuffled and dealt into a pyramid formation consisting of 28 cards.
The pyramid has seven rows arranged like this:
Row 1: 1 card
Row 2: 2 cards
Row 3: 3 cards
Row 4: 4 cards
Row 5: 5 cards
Row 6: 6 cards
Row 7: 7 cards
Each row overlaps the one below it, meaning some cards are partially covered.
After the pyramid is built, the remaining cards are placed face down to form the stock pile.
Cards drawn from the stock pile are placed into a waste pile, which players can use to help form pairs.
Objective of Pyramid Solitaire
The goal of Pyramid Solitaire is to remove all 28 cards from the pyramid.
Cards can only be removed when:
• Two cards add up to 13, or
• A King (value 13) is removed by itself.
Once the pyramid is cleared completely, the game is won.
Card Values in Pyramid Solitaire
Each card has a specific point value used to create pairs that equal 13.
| Card | Value |
|---|---|
| Ace | 1 |
| 2–10 | Face value |
| Jack | 11 |
| Queen | 12 |
| King | 13 |
Since Kings equal 13 on their own, they can be removed individually without pairing.
Pyramid Solitaire Rules
Understanding the basic rules will help you play the game more effectively.
Only Uncovered Cards Can Be Played
In the pyramid layout, many cards are partially covered by cards above them.
A card is considered playable only if:
• No other cards are covering it.
Players must remove cards from the top layers before accessing the cards underneath.
Cards Must Add Up to 13
To remove cards from the pyramid, players must match pairs whose values equal 13.
Examples include:
Ace (1) + Queen (12)
2 + Jack (11)
3 + 10
4 + 9
5 + 8
6 + 7
If a King appears, it can be removed immediately since it already equals 13.
Using the Stock Pile
If no matching pairs are available in the pyramid, players can draw cards from the stock pile.
Rules for the stock pile:
• Cards are drawn one at a time
• The drawn card is placed into the waste pile
• Waste pile cards can be paired with pyramid cards
This allows players to create new combinations that remove cards from the pyramid.
Example Turn
Here is an example of how a move might work:
- A 5 is uncovered in the pyramid.
- A 8 appears in the waste pile.
- Because 5 + 8 = 13, the pair can be removed.
Both cards are removed from the game.
Winning Pyramid Solitaire
You win the game when:
All cards in the pyramid are removed.
However, the game is lost if:
• The stock pile runs out
• No remaining pairs equal 13
• Cards remain in the pyramid
Because of this, Pyramid Solitaire can sometimes depend on luck.
Pyramid Solitaire Strategy Tips
Although luck plays a role, strategy can significantly improve your chances of winning.
Prioritize Removing Kings
Kings are the easiest cards to remove because they equal 13 by themselves.
Removing them early helps uncover new cards in the pyramid.
Focus on Revealing Hidden Cards
Cards deeper in the pyramid are often more valuable because they unlock multiple new moves.
Always try to remove cards that expose new rows.
Use the Stock Pile Carefully
Avoid drawing too many cards quickly.
Sometimes it’s better to evaluate all available pairs in the pyramid before using the stock pile.
Plan Ahead
Before removing a pair, consider whether it will block access to other important cards later.
A move that seems helpful now may limit your options later.
Pyramid Solitaire vs Other Solitaire Games
Pyramid Solitaire is quite different from traditional Solitaire games like Klondike or FreeCell.
| Feature | Pyramid | Classic Solitaire |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Remove cards totaling 13 | Build foundation piles |
| Gameplay | Pair matching values | Build card sequences |
| Luck factor | Moderate | Moderate |
| Strategy | Medium | Medium |
Because of its unique pairing mechanic, Pyramid Solitaire feels more like a puzzle game than a traditional card-building game.
Play Solitaire Online
If you enjoy Pyramid Solitaire, you may also enjoy other Solitaire games available on our site.
Try these popular versions:
👉 Play Classic Solitaire
https://solitairegaming.com/classic-solitaire/
👉 Play Spider Solitaire
https://solitairegaming.com/play-spider-solitaire/
Each game offers a different challenge and strategy style.
Final Thoughts
Pyramid Solitaire is a fun and accessible card game that combines simple rules with strategic thinking.
Because players must carefully pair cards to equal 13, every move matters. With practice and thoughtful decision-making, you can significantly improve your ability to solve the pyramid and win more games.
Whether you’re playing casually to relax or challenging yourself to beat the puzzle, Pyramid Solitaire offers a rewarding and engaging experience.