Play Pyramid Solitaire Online - Match Cards to 13
Pyramid Solitaire is a unique and challenging card game where you remove pairs of cards that add up to 13. Clear the entire pyramid to win! Play completely free with no ads or downloads.
How to Play Pyramid Solitaire
Objective: Remove all cards from the pyramid by pairing cards that add up to 13.
Game Setup
- Pyramid: 28 cards arranged in 7 overlapping rows
- Stock: 24 cards to draw from
- Waste Pile: Shows the current card you can pair with
Card Values
- Ace = 1
- 2-10 = Face value
- Jack = 11
- Queen = 12
- King = 13 (removed alone, no pairing needed!)
Basic Rules
- Remove pairs of cards that add up to 13
- Kings are removed alone (worth 13 by themselves)
- Only uncovered cards (not overlapped) can be paired
- Suits don't matter - only values
- Can pair pyramid cards with each other, or pyramid cards with the waste pile
- Click stock to flip a new card when stuck
Valid Pairs (That Add to 13)
- Ace (1) + Queen (12)
- 2 + Jack (11)
- 3 + 10
- 4 + 9
- 5 + 8
- 6 + 7
- King (13) - removed alone
Winning Strategy Tips
- Remove Kings immediately - They block other cards and can be removed any time
- Expose peak cards first - Top of pyramid limits access to lower cards
- Plan several moves ahead - Think about which cards will be exposed
- Work evenly across pyramid - Don't focus on just one side
- Save stock cards - Don't draw too quickly
- Memorize pairs - Quickly spotting 13-pairs improves gameplay
- Count remaining matches - If you have two Queens and no Aces, you're in trouble!
Advanced Techniques
Card Counting
Pay attention to which ranks have been removed. If you see three 7s have been played, you know only one 6 remains to pair with any future 7s.
Pyramid Geometry
Understanding which cards block which helps plan your moves. Each card in the pyramid blocks two cards below it.
Stock Management
The stock pile is your safety valve. Use it when you can't find pairs in the pyramid, but don't waste it on quick plays you might regret.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Leaving Kings buried - Always remove Kings when possible
- Ignoring the geometry - Don't remove cards that will trap valuable pairs
- Drawing too quickly - Exhaust pyramid pairs first
- Not counting cards - If 3 Aces are gone, that Queen is very valuable!
Why Play Our Pyramid Solitaire?
- Unique Gameplay - Different from traditional solitaire
- Math Skills - Improves mental arithmetic
- No Ads - Uninterrupted fun
- Mobile Optimized - Perfect for touchscreens
- Track Progress - Monitor wins and statistics
- Beautiful Design - Clean, clear cards
- Instant Play - No registration needed
History of Pyramid Solitaire
Pyramid Solitaire appeared in print in the 1870s and has remained popular ever since. The pyramid structure adds a unique spatial element to solitaire, combining math skills with strategic planning. It became even more popular when included in Microsoft Entertainment Pack in the 1990s.
Educational Value
Pyramid Solitaire is excellent for:
- Mental math practice - Quickly adding to 13
- Pattern recognition - Spotting valid pairs
- Spatial reasoning - Understanding pyramid structure
- Strategic planning - Thinking ahead about uncovering cards
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Pyramid Solitaire games winnable?
No, only about 1 in 50 Pyramid games are winnable, even with perfect play! Much of it depends on the initial deal. Don't get discouraged - winning a Pyramid game feels amazing because it's so rare!
Why are Kings removed alone?
Kings are worth 13 points by themselves, so they don't need a pair. This is actually helpful - use it to your advantage by removing Kings quickly to expose blocked cards.
Can I pair cards from the stock with each other?
No, you can only pair the current stock (waste) card with pyramid cards, or pair two pyramid cards with each other.
What's the best card to hope for from the stock?
Kings are best because they remove themselves. Otherwise, cards that can pair with many exposed pyramid cards give you the most options.
Challenge yourself with Pyramid Solitaire - where math meets strategy!
