Card Games To Play By Yourself
Solo card games offer a satisfying way to pass time when you want entertainment without needing other players. Using just a standard 52-card deck, these games range from quick five-minute diversions to strategic challenges that test your planning abilities. Whether you prefer luck-driven games or skill-based puzzles, single-player card games provide endless replay value for players of all ages.
Solo Card Games Overview
Single-player card games have existed for centuries, with many variations originating in Europe before spreading worldwide. Most require only one or two standard decks, making them accessible anywhere.
These games appeal to players who enjoy solo board games and want something portable. A deck of cards fits in any pocket, ready for train rides, lunch breaks, or quiet evenings at home.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Equipment Needed | 1-2 standard 52-card decks |
| Player Count | 1 player |
| Average Play Time | 5-30 minutes per game |
| Skill Level | Beginner to Advanced |
| Age Range | 6+ years |
Best Solo Card Games by Difficulty
Choosing the right solo card game depends on how much challenge you want. Beginners should start with games like Wish or Clock Solitaire before tackling complex variants like Spider Solitaire or Forty Thieves.
| Game Name | Difficulty | Decks Required | Play Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wish | Easy | 1 (32 cards) | 5 minutes |
| Clock Solitaire | Easy | 1 | 5-10 minutes |
| Aces Up | Easy | 1 | 5 minutes |
| Beehive | Easy | 1 | 10 minutes |
| Pyramid Solitaire | Moderate | 1 | 10-15 minutes |
| Golf Solitaire | Moderate | 1 | 15-20 minutes |
| Freecell | Challenging | 1 | 10-15 minutes |
| Spider Solitaire | Challenging | 2 | 15-30 minutes |
| Forty Thieves | Very Hard | 2 | 20-30 minutes |
How to Play Popular Solo Card Games
Clock Solitaire Rules
Clock Solitaire uses a clock-face layout that makes it visually distinctive. Deal 13 piles of 4 cards face-down, arranging 12 piles in a circle with one pile in the center. Each position corresponds to a clock number, with the center representing 13 (Kings).
Flip the top center card and place it under the pile matching its value. A 3 goes under the 3 o’clock position, Jacks under 11, Queens under 12. Flip the top card from each pile you add to. Win by sorting all cards before revealing all four Kings.
Pyramid Solitaire Rules
Build a pyramid of 28 face-up cards across seven rows. The goal involves removing pairs that total 13. Kings equal 13 alone, while Queens count as 12, Jacks as 11, and Aces as 1.
Only exposed cards at pyramid edges can be paired. Draw from the remaining deck when no pairs exist. Clear the entire pyramid to win. This game rewards careful observation and planning ahead.
Spider Solitaire Rules
Spider Solitaire requires two full decks shuffled together. Deal 54 cards into 10 columns, with 4 columns holding 6 cards and 6 columns holding 5 cards. Only top cards face up initially.
Build descending sequences by moving cards between columns. Same-suit sequences can move as a group. Complete a King-to-Ace run in one suit to remove those cards. The remaining deck provides new cards when moves run dry. This game challenges even experienced players.
Pros and Cons of Solo Card Games
Advantages
Portability stands out as the primary benefit. A single deck weighs almost nothing and survives being tossed in bags or pockets. No setup beyond shuffling means instant entertainment anywhere.
The variety keeps games fresh. Dozens of solitaire variants exist, each offering different mechanics and challenge levels. Cost remains minimal since one deck provides access to countless games. Regular play also sharpens concentration and pattern recognition.
Disadvantages
Some games rely heavily on luck. Clock Solitaire rarely succeeds regardless of player skill. Certain Freecell deals prove mathematically unsolvable.
Physical card handling takes practice. Shuffling two decks together requires technique, and cards wear out over time with frequent play.
Where to Buy Playing Cards for Solo Card Games
| Retailer | Card Quality | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Budget to Premium | $3-$15 |
| Target | Standard | $3-$8 |
| Bicycle Cards (Official) | Premium | $5-$12 |
| Local Game Stores | Premium | $8-$20 |
Bicycle and Bee brand cards offer durability for frequent solo play. Plastic-coated cards resist bending and last longer than uncoated paper stock. For themed card games with solo modes, explore inexpensive cooperative games that include single-player variants.
FAQ
What is the easiest solo card game for beginners?
Wish ranks as the simplest solo card game. It uses only 32 cards and involves matching pairs by rank. The rules take under a minute to learn, making it perfect for children aged 8 and up or adults wanting quick entertainment.
How long does a typical solo card game take?
Most single-player card games finish within 5 to 20 minutes. Quick games like Aces Up take roughly 5 minutes, while complex variants like Spider Solitaire may extend to 30 minutes depending on the shuffle.
Can you win every solo card game you play?
No. Many solitaire variants depend partly on the initial deal. Clock Solitaire succeeds only about 1% of the time regardless of skill. Freecell offers better odds, with most deals solvable through careful play and planning.
What equipment do you need for solo card games?
A standard 52-card deck handles most solo games. Some variants like Spider Solitaire or Forty Thieves require two decks shuffled together. A flat playing surface completes the setup requirements.
Are solo card games good for brain training?
Regular card game play improves memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. Games requiring sequence planning and pattern recognition provide mental exercise similar to puzzles or strategy games.
