Penguin Solitaire

Penguin Solitaire is a fascinating variant that introduces a dynamic twist to traditional FreeCell. A randomly chosen “beak” card determines the foundation base rank for every game, meaning foundations build up by suit from that rank with wrapping (King wraps to Ace). Combined with same-suit tableau building and a single “flipper” reserve cell, every deal presents a unique puzzle.

How Penguin Works

At the start, a random card is chosen as the beak. All four cards of that rank are placed on the four foundation piles. The remaining 48 cards are dealt face-up into 7 tableau columns, with one card going to the flipper cell. Build foundations up by suit with wrapping. Build tableau columns down by same suit. Move sequences of same-suit cards as a group. Any card can fill an empty column.

Why It's Special

The dynamic foundation base means no two games feel the same. When the base rank is 7, you need to wrap through King, Ace, and back to 6. This wrapping mechanic adds a layer of planning that other solitaire games lack. The single flipper cell forces careful resource management — every move counts when you only have one temporary storage spot.

Learn More

• How to Play Penguin Solitaire — Complete rules and strategy guide
• Play Canfield Solitaire — Another game with a random foundation base
• Play FreeCell — The classic free cell solitaire
• Types of Solitaire — Explore 20+ solitaire variants