How to play Pyramid solitaire
28 cards are dealt in a pyramid of seven rows; the other 24 form the stock. Remove any two uncovered cards whose values add up to 13. Aces count 1, Jacks 11, Queens 12, and a King (13) is removed alone. Turn stock cards onto the waste one at a time; the top waste card can pair with a pyramid card or with the next card you turn. Clear all 28 pyramid cards to win.
Pyramid strategy
- Work the pyramid, not the stock. When you have a choice between pairing with a waste card or a pyramid card, taking the pyramid card usually opens more options.
- Watch which cards are buried. If three 7s are near the top of the pyramid, don't spend a 6 from the bottom row too early.
- Spread your removals. Clearing both sides of the pyramid evenly uncovers the peak cards sooner than digging down one side.
Ask the puzzle coach
Stuck on a rule or a tactic? Ask in plain words. The coach only talks puzzles, and the answer is written for you on the spot.
Questions players ask
Which cards add up to 13?
Ace + Queen, 2 + Jack, 3 + 10, 4 + 9, 5 + 8 and 6 + 7. Kings count as 13 on their own and are removed with a single tap.
When is a card available?
A pyramid card can be used once both cards overlapping it from the row below are gone. The bottom row is always available, and so is the top card of the waste pile.
How many times can I go through the deck?
Three passes in total. After the stock runs out you can turn the waste pile over twice.
How often can Pyramid be won?
Pyramid is a game of luck as much as skill. Many deals cannot be cleared, so counting how many cards you cleared is a fair way to score a loss.