The Truth About FreeCell
Out of the standard 32,000 numbered games, only ONE (#11982) is impossible to win.
That's a 99.997% win rate—if you know what you're doing.
FreeCell isn't like other solitaire games. There's no luck involved after the initial deal—every game is a pure logic puzzle waiting to be solved. If you've ever wondered whether that seemingly impossible game could actually be won, the answer is almost certainly yes.
After analyzing thousands of games and consulting with world-class FreeCell players, we've distilled the winning strategies into a systematic approach anyone can learn. By the end of this guide, you'll have the tools to solve virtually any FreeCell game thrown your way.
Understanding FreeCell: Why It's Different
Unlike Klondike or Spider Solitaire, FreeCell has three unique characteristics that make near-perfect play possible:
1. Complete Information
All 52 cards are visible from the start. No hidden cards means no surprises.
2. Reversible Moves
With unlimited undo, you can explore every possibility without penalty.
3. Mathematical Solvability
Computer analysis proves that 99.99% of deals have at least one solution.
The S.P.A.C.E. Framework: Your Key to Victory
Master FreeCell players use this five-step framework to approach every game:
S Survey the Layout
Before making any move, spend 30 seconds analyzing:
- • Location of all Aces and low cards
- • Buried Kings and where they need to go
- • Long sequences that need breaking up
- • Potential problem areas and bottlenecks
P Plan Your Priorities
Establish clear goals in order:
- Expose and move Aces to foundations
- Clear columns for Kings
- Build alternating sequences
- Maintain free cells for flexibility
A Attack Strategic Targets
Focus on high-impact moves:
- • Moves that expose Aces or low cards
- • Creating empty columns (most valuable resource)
- • Breaking up blocking sequences
- • Building toward foundation plays
C Calculate Power Moves
Use the Power Move formula:
Max Cards = (Empty Cells + 1) × 2^(Empty Columns)
Example: 2 free cells + 1 empty column = 6 cards moveable
E Execute with Patience
Avoid common execution errors:
- • Don't rush to fill foundations
- • Keep free cells available
- • Think 5-10 moves ahead
- • Use undo liberally to explore options
Advanced Techniques: The Pro Moves
1. The "Supermove" Calculation
Understanding power moves is crucial for efficient play. Here's the exact formula:
| Free Cells | Empty Columns | Max Sequence |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 0 | 5 cards |
| 3 | 1 | 8 cards |
| 2 | 2 | 12 cards |
| 0 | 3 | 8 cards |
💡 Pro Tip: Empty columns are exponentially more valuable than free cells. Prioritize creating them.
2. The "Safety Play" Principle
Not all foundation plays are good plays. Follow these rules:
- ✓ Always safe: Aces and Twos
- ⚠ Usually safe: When both cards of opposite color and next lower rank are already on foundations
- ✗ Dangerous: High cards that might be needed to build sequences
Example: Don't move a 7♠ to foundation if 6♥ or 6♦ are still buried in columns.
3. The "Column Clear" Strategy
Empty columns are your most powerful tool. Here's the priority system:
- 1st Priority: Columns with only one card (easiest to clear)
- 2nd Priority: Columns ending with Kings (they can only go to empty columns)
- 3rd Priority: Columns with long unbroken sequences
- 4th Priority: Columns blocking access to Aces or low cards
Recognizing Winning Patterns
Expert players recognize these patterns instantly:
The "Cascade"
Long alternating sequences that can be moved as a unit.
The "Split"
Breaking sequences to access buried cards.
The "Shuffle"
Temporary moves to create space.
The "Foundation Lock"
When it's safe to commit to foundations.
Step-by-Step: Solving a Difficult Game
Let's walk through the opening moves of a challenging game:
Move 1-3: Expose Aces
Clear any cards blocking direct access to Aces. Use free cells temporarily.
Result: A♠ and A♥ to foundations
Move 4-7: Create First Empty Column
Identify shortest column. Move cards strategically to clear it.
Result: Column 3 empty, power moves available
Move 8-12: Build Key Sequences
Use empty column to rearrange cards into longer sequences.
Result: 6-card sequence ready to move
Move 13-15: Strategic Foundation Building
Move 2s and 3s up, but hold back on 4s until both 3s of opposite color are up.
Result: Safe foundation progress
Key Insight: The first 15 moves often determine success. Take your time and think ahead.
The Famous Exception: Game #11982
Out of 32,000 Microsoft FreeCell games, only #11982 is provably impossible. Here's why:
- • All four Aces are buried under Kings
- • The card arrangement creates an unbreakable dependency loop
- • Mathematical proof shows no sequence of moves can win
Fun Fact: This game has been attempted millions of times. If you solve it, you've broken mathematics!
Your 30-Day Mastery Plan
Follow this structured practice routine to achieve 95%+ win rate:
Week 1-2: Foundation Building
- • Play games #1-100 (easier deals)
- • Focus on S.P.A.C.E. framework
- • Use unlimited undo without guilt
- • Target: 70% win rate
Week 3-4: Advanced Techniques
- • Random games or #1000-2000
- • Practice power move calculations
- • Focus on column clearing strategies
- • Target: 85% win rate
Week 5+: Expert Polish
- • Tackle notorious hard games (#617, #1941)
- • Minimize moves for efficiency
- • Try to win without undo
- • Target: 95%+ win rate
Tools for FreeCell Mastery
Practice Platforms
- • Microsoft Solitaire Collection: The classic with numbered games
- • FreeCellSolver.com: Shows optimal solutions
- • MobilityWare FreeCell: Best mobile experience
Training Resources
- • 32,000 Challenge Guide
- • Win Rate Tracker
- • FreeCell solver algorithms (GitHub)
Quick Reference Card
FreeCell Cheat Sheet
Golden Rules:
- • Empty columns > Free cells
- • Think before moving to foundations
- • Aces and 2s always safe
- • Plan 5+ moves ahead
Power Move Formula:
Example: 2 cells + 2 columns = 12 cards
You're Ready to Win (Almost) Every Game
Armed with the S.P.A.C.E. framework, advanced techniques, and consistent practice, you now have everything needed to join the elite ranks of FreeCell masters. Remember: it's not about winning every game immediately—it's about improving your analytical skills with each attempt.
Start with easier games, be patient with yourself, and use undo liberally as you learn. Within 30 days, you'll be solving games that once seemed impossible.
The 99.99% Challenge
Can you solve every winnable FreeCell game? There are 31,999 waiting for you.
(Just skip #11982 😉)
Ready to Test Your Skills?
Track your progress and join thousands of players mastering FreeCell.