Baker’s Dozen Solitaire is a fun and challenging solitaire card game that requires strategic thinking and planning. Unlike traditional solitaire games, Baker’s Dozen has open cards from the start, making it a game of pure skill rather than luck.
In this guide, we will explore the rules, strategies, and expert tips to help you master Baker's Dozen Solitaire and improve your chances of winning!
Baker’s Dozen Solitaire is a single-deck solitaire game that gets its name from the phrase baker's dozen, which means 13. This name comes from the fact that the game has 13 tableau columns.
Unlike some solitaire games, Baker’s Dozen does not allow card stacking in alternating colors. Instead, it has a strict rule set that challenges players to think ahead before making a move.
A standard 52-card deck is used.
The entire deck is dealt face-up into 13 tableau columns, with four cards in each column.
Kings are automatically moved to the bottom of their columns at the start of the game.
The goal is to move all the cards into four foundation piles, sorted by suit from Ace to King.
Only the top card of each tableau column can be moved.
Cards can only be moved to the foundation piles in ascending order by suit (Ace → 2 → 3 → … → King).
Unlike some solitaire games, you cannot move cards between tableau columns.
Kings are always placed at the bottom of their respective columns and cannot be moved until the cards above them are cleared.
The game is won when all 52 cards are placed in the four foundation piles in correct order.
All cards are face-up, so you always know what moves are possible.
There are no hidden cards or stockpiles.
Kings automatically move to the bottom, which prevents blocking issues.
No redeals or resets you must think carefully before making a move.
Since Baker’s Dozen is a skill-based solitaire game, understanding the right strategies can greatly increase your chances of winning. Here are some expert tips:
Since the goal is to move all cards to the foundations, getting Aces to the foundations early will open up more moves.
Identify where the Aces are located and try to free them as soon as possible.
Kings start at the bottom of columns, meaning they cannot move until all cards above them are cleared.
If possible, focus on clearing columns that have Kings first, so you don’t get stuck later in the game.
Since there is no way to rearrange tableau columns, the best strategy is to move cards to the foundation piles as soon as possible.
Avoid keeping playable cards in the tableau if they can be sent to the foundations.
Taller columns block more cards, so clearing them will open up more moves.
Start by freeing cards from the columns with the most hidden cards to maximize your chances of success.
Unlike other solitaire games, you cannot move cards between tableau columns, so every move counts.
Always consider how your next moves will impact future possibilities before making a decision.
Even skilled players can make mistakes when playing Baker’s Dozen Solitaire. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
Since you cannot move cards between tableau columns, making random moves can quickly block future progress.
Always plan your moves carefully.
Kings cannot be moved, so if they are covering an important card, it can make the game harder.
Try to clear columns with Kings as early as possible.
Since there’s no redeal or undo, keeping cards in the tableau instead of moving them to foundations reduces available moves.
Move cards to the foundations as soon as you can.
Baker’s Dozen Solitaire is a fun, challenging, and rewarding solitaire game that requires skill and strategic thinking to win. Unlike luck-based solitaire games, every move in Baker’s Dozen should be carefully planned to avoid getting stuck.